Tomato Basil Soup - cooking recipe

Ingredients

4 c. canned whole tomatoes, crushed
4 c. tomato juice or part tomato juice and part vegetable stock or chicken stock
12 to 14 fresh basil leaves (plus more for garnish)
1 c. heavy cream
1/2 c. unsalted butter, softened
salt and pepper to taste

Preparation

Combine tomatoes and juice in a large saucepan over medium heat.
Simmer 30 minutes.
In a blender or food processor, combine the tomato mixture and 12 to 14 basil leaves.
Do this in several small batches.
Process until smooth.