GRAMMERCY TAVERN'S TOMATO-GARLIC BREAD SOUP

GRAMMERCY TAVERN'S TOMATO-GARLIC BREAD SOUP

Course :	Soups
From:	HungryMonster.com
Serves:	6 - 8

Ingredients:

		---CROUTONS
3	cloves	garlic -- minced
1/2	cup	extra-virgin olive oil
1/2	pound	stale peasant bread -- cut into 1-2 inch cubes
1	teaspoon	salt and pepper
		---SOUP
2	Tablespoons	olive oil
3	medium	Onions -- small dice
6	cloves	garlic -- minced
2	large cans	peeled plum tomatoes -- squeezed and drained
2	quarts	chicken stock
1/2	cup	parmigiano-reggiano cheese
1/4	cup	sugar
1	teaspoon	salt and pepper to taste
1/4	cup	julienne of basil for garnish
1/4	cup	shaved Parmesan for garnish

Preparation:

CROUTONS In a large mixing bowl toss all ingredients. Spread on a sheet pan and bake at 350 degrees until golden, about 10 minutes. SOUP Heat oil in a heavy soup pot over medium heat. "Sweat" the onions until tender (no color) for 20-30 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute. Add tomatoes, chicken stock, Parmesan, sugar, salt and pepper. Simmer gently for 45 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes. Check seasonings. TO SERVE Before serving, add croutons and cook for 1 minute. Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with basil and shaved Parmesan.