Creamy Tomato Soup

2 tablespoons oil or cooking fat of choice

1 large onion, peeled and chopped

4 cloves garlic, peeled and coarsely chopped

One 28-ounce can crushed, diced or whole peeled tomatoes (San Marzano or home canned are best!)

1ВЅ cups chicken stock (use vegetable stock if making vegetarian)

1 cup unsweetened coconut milk

2 tablespoons minced fresh basil, plus 1 tablespoon for garnishing

1 tablespoon tomato paste

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

In a large Dutch oven or soup pot that is already hot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onions, and sautГ© until just about translucent, about 4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and sautГ© for 1 minute more. Mix in the remaining ingredients, and simmer for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Carefully pour a cup or two of the soup mixture into a blender (until it is only halfway full) and puree until smooth. Remove to a separate soup pot or container, and repeat with the remaining soup mixture, working in batches. Alternatively, you can use an immersion blender to puree the soup mixture. Serve hot, topped with some minced basil for garnish.

NOTES: Hot liquids and blenders can be a very dangerous thing! As hot liquids will expand when blended, you want to make sure not to fill up your blender too high, and always cover the lid of the blender with a dish towel, pressing down firmly on the lid, to keep any escaping liquid from splattering all over your kitchen!