Uncle Bill'S Creamy, Savory Tomato Soup - cooking recipe

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 large yellow onion, diced
4 large garlic cloves, minced
2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh thyme leaves
1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
6 large sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, chopped small
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup half-and-half cream
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon white pepper

Preparation

In a large saucepan, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat.
Add onion and saute' until translucent, about 2 minutes, stirring often.
Add garlic and thyme and saute' for 2 minutes.
Add crushed tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes and balsamic vinegar.
Bring to simmer, about 3 minutes, stirring frequently.
Reduce to low and stir in baking soda.
Add half and half, stir well and bring to a simmer. DO NOT BOIL.
Use an immersion blender to puree' soup in the saucepan or puree' soup in batches in a food processor or blender.
Season with salt and pepper.
Serve hot.