Tomato Basil Soup – Kara Keels

Ingredients

• 3 pounds Tomatoes Ripe (cut in quarters)
• 1/3 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Hold two tablespoons for sautéing )
• 2 teaspoons Sea Salt
• 1/2 tablespoon Fresh Ground Black Pepper
• 2 Yellow Onions (chopped)
• 7 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons Butter
• 1 tablespoon Red Pepper Flakes (crushed)
• 1 28 ounce Can Diced Tomatoes (in juice)
• 1 quart Chicken Stock (use vegetable or water if vegetarian)
• 5 sprigs Fresh Thyme
• 4 cups Fresh Basil (packed )