FRENCH TOMATO SOUP WITH PASTRY PUFF

Steps:

• INSTRUCTIONS: Melt the 1/4 pound butter in a large stockpot over medium-low heat. Add the onions, cover and cook for about 5 minutes. Do not let the onions color. Add the tomatoes, garlic, tomato paste, bay leaf, peppercorns, thyme and water if needed. Simmer over low heat for 30 to 40 minutes, until the tomatoes and onions are very soft. Puree in a blender (working in batches) or use a handheld immersion blender; strain. Return the soup to the pot. Add the cream, salt, white pepper and the remaining 1 tablespoon butter. Bring to a boil, then remove from the heat. Divide among six 8-ounce soup cups or bowls. Roll out the puff pastry to 1/4 inch thick. Cut 6 rounds slightly larger than the top of your cups or bowls. Paint the dough with the egg wash and turn the circles egg-wash-side down over the top of the cups, pulling lightly on the sides to make the dough tight like a drum. Let the soups cool for 2 hours or overnight (in the refrigerator). Preheat the oven to 450 degrees. Lightly paint the top of the dough rounds with egg wash without pushing the dough down. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, until the dough is golden brown (do not open the oven door for the first few minutes or the dough will fall). Serve immediately. Serves 6. PER SERVING: 1,143 calories, 13 g protein, 61 g carbohydrate, 98 g fat (52 g saturated), 299 mg cholesterol, 96 mg sodium, 11 g fiber.