Parker House Tomato Soup Recipe
The history of Parker House Tomato Soup dates back to the 19th century when it was first created at the famous Parker House Hotel in Boston, Massachusetts. This iconic hotel, now known as the Omni Parker House, was established in 1855 and has since been renowned for its culinary excellence and innovative recipes.
Tomato soup has been a staple in American cuisine for centuries, but the Parker House Hotel took this classic soup to a whole new level. The recipe became so popular that it quickly spread beyond the walls of the hotel and became a household favorite across the United States.
Now, let's dive into the recipe for Parker House Tomato Soup. It's a simple yet flavorful dish that combines the freshness of tomatoes with the creaminess of butter and the subtle sweetness of sugar. The addition of rice flour gives the soup a thick and smooth consistency.
To make Parker House Tomato Soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- 5 pounds of tomatoes, either fresh or canned
- 1 quart of water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A pinch of cayenne pepper
- 1 1/2 tablespoonfuls of sugar
- 3 ounces of butter
- 1 heaping tablespoonful of flour
- 1 1/2 tablespoonfuls of rice flour
Start by placing the tomatoes, either fresh or canned, into a large saucepan. Add the water, salt, pepper, cayenne, sugar, and the butter that has been rubbed into the flour. This flour-butter mixture serves as a thickening agent for the soup. Cook the mixture over low heat for about one hour, stirring occasionally.
After an hour, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool slightly. Once it has cooled down, pass the mixture through a sieve to remove any seeds or skin, ensuring a smooth and creamy texture. Return the strained soup to the saucepan and place it back over the heat.
In a separate small bowl, dissolve the rice flour in a little water to make a slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the saucepan while stirring continuously. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, stirring constantly, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Once the soup has reached the desired thickness, it is ready to be served. Ladle it into bowls and garnish with a sprig of fresh basil or a dollop of sour cream for an added touch.
Now that you have learned how to make Parker House Tomato Soup, let's explore some fun facts about this delightful dish. The Parker House Hotel is not only famous for its tomato soup but also for being the birthplace of the Boston Cream Pie and Parker House Rolls, both of which are still beloved treats today.
Many variations of tomato soup exist, each with its own unique twist. Some people choose to add additional ingredients such as onions, garlic, or spices like paprika or thyme for added flavor. Others prefer to blend the soup after cooking, creating a silky smooth consistency.
If you're looking for similar recipes, there are several tomato-based soups that you can try. For example, Creamy Tomato Basil Soup adds the aromatic flavor of basil to the basic tomato soup recipe. Another popular option is Roasted Tomato Soup, where the tomatoes are roasted beforehand, intensifying their natural sweetness.
In conclusion, Parker House Tomato Soup is a classic recipe that has stood the test of time. Its rich history and delicious taste have made it a favorite among many. Whether enjoyed on a cold winter day or as a comforting meal before bed, this soup is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. So why not try your hand at making this iconic dish and experience a piece of culinary history in your own home?
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