This, folks, is the real thing. The stuff that we were given on snow days and anytime it rained. For a real treat, make a grilled cheese sandwich to have alongside. Mmmm good is right!
2 Tbsp. butter
1 large onion, chopped
2 or more cloves garlic – your taste choice
1 1/2 tsp. dried tarragon
1/2 tsp. allspice
1/2 tsp. sugar
6 cups chicken broth
2 cans (28 oz. each) crushed tomatoes
1 Tbsp. tomato paste
1 Tbsp. grated orange zest – McCormick’s makes a good dry one
1 cup half-n-half or you can use heavy cream
Melt the butter in a large pot; add the onion and cook for 10 minutes. Add garlic, tarragon, allspice, & sugar and cook & stir for 1 more minute. Add the broth, tomatoes and paste, bring to a boil then reduce & simmer for 30 minutes – cover partially. Stir in the zest and remove from heat to cool for about 10 minutes.
Puree the soup (in batches) in a food processor or blender then return to the pot; stir in half-n-half, heat through over a lower heat and serve.