Tomato Basil Soup - cooking recipe

Ingredients

4 c. tomatoes (8 to 10), peeled, cored and chopped or 4 c. canned whole tomatoes, crushed
4 c. unsalted tomato juice
12 to 14 fresh basil leaves plus 1 for garnish, chopped
1 c. whipping cream
1/2 c. sweet unsalted butter, softened
1/4 c. cracked black pepper
salt to taste
crusty bread

Preparation

Combine tomatoes and juice in saucepan.
Simmer 30 minutes over low to medium heat.
Cool slightly and place in blender or food processor.
Add basil and process to puree.
This will have to be done in batches.
Return to saucepan.
Add cream and butter. Stir over low heat until butter and cream are incorporated.
Stir in salt and pepper before serving.
Garnish with more fresh basil. Serves 8.