YOU MUST TRY THIS!!! (tomato bisque)

Perfect Tomato Basil Bisque

3 pounds fresh tomatoes, peeled, seeded and chopped

32-ounce can of tomato puree

4-ounce can tomato paste

1 pint heavy cream

1/4 pound butter

1 cup water

1/2 cup cooking sherry

1/2 cup fresh basil, finely chopped

2 T chicken broth granules

2 T garlic powder
1/2 tsp lemon zest

1 pinch ground saffron

salt to taste

Combine all ingredients in a large pot.  Bring to just before a boil.  Reduce heat and simmer for one hour, stirring frequently.  Serve warm topped with shaved parmesan as a garnish, and bread on the side for dipping.  If you have ever had the tomato soup at La Madeleine....  This is better!