Creamy Tomato Soup: A Hug in a Bowl

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp Olive Oil (30 ml)
• 1 large Onion, chopped (approx. 200g)
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 2 lbs (900g) ripe Tomatoes, roughly chopped
• 1 tbsp Tomato Paste (15 ml)
• 1 small Carrot, finely diced (approx. 75g)
• 1 Celery stalk, finely diced (approx. 50g)
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
• 4 cups (950 ml) Vegetable Broth (or Chicken Broth)
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) Heavy Cream
• Salt and Black Pepper to taste
• Pinch of sugar (optional)
• 1 Bay leaf