INGREDIENTS

Bouquet Garni
  • 2 sprigs basil
  • 5 sprigs thyme
  • 3 sprigs parsley
  • 10 peppercorns, whole
Vellutata
  • 1 C (150 g) onion, chopped
  • Kosher salt to taste
  • 2 Tbsp (30 ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 C (322 g) plum tomatoes, cored and chopped
  • 1 Tbsp (17 g) tomato paste
  • 5 cloves roasted garlic
  • ½ C (118 ml) dry white wine
  • 14 oz (397 g) can whole plum tomatoes, San Marzano brand preferred
  • Pinch of red chili flakes
  • 1 Bouquet garni
  • 1 qt (1 l) cold water
  • 2 Tbsp (25 g) light brown sugar
  • ⅔ C (22 ml) heavy cream
  • 2 tsp (10 ml) liquid smoke
Basil Goat Cheese Crostini
  • 12 baguette slices
  • 2 Tbsp (30 ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • ½ C (12 g) basil leaves, loosely packed
  • 4 oz (113 g) fresh chèvre, room temperature

GUIDE / INSTRUCTIONS

Bouquet Garni
  • Tie herbs together, place in cheesecloth and add peppercorns; tie tightly with twine and set aside.
Vellutata
  • Cook onion with salt in oil in a large pot over medium low heat, stirring often, until limp and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add chopped tomatoes, increase to medium heat stirring often, until tomatoes have given up most of their liquid and bottom of pot is nearly dry. Stir in tomato paste and garlic; cook for 1 minute. Stir in white wine and cook until almost dry. Add canned tomatoes (and all their liquid), chili flakes and bouquet garni. Cover with cold water; bring to a boil over high heat; then reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes, or until liquid reduced by ⅓. Remove from heat; discard bouquet garni. Stir in brown sugar, cream and liquid smoke. In a blender, process soup in batches until smooth; season to taste with salt. Plate immediately or chill and reheat; serve with crostini.
Basil Goat Cheese Crostini
  • Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Brush both sides of baguette slices with oil and bake until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Blanch basil 15 seconds in boiling salted water; drain; pat dry, and add to chèvre in food processor; blend until smooth and spread on baguette.

For cruise comparisons or ship reviews related to Viking Ocean/River Cruises, click here.

Viking Cruises is a cruise line offering both river and ocean cruises, known for its inclusive pricing, destination-focused itineraries, and comfortable accommodations. They also offer expedition cruises, exploring remote and fascinating destinations.

Key aspects of Viking Cruises includes: 1. Focus on Culture and History – Viking emphasizes immersive experiences, including shore excursions, expert lectures, and onboard enrichment programs. 2. Inclusive Pricing – Many costs are included in the fare, such as meals, Wi-Fi, port charges, and some shore excursions. 3. Small Ship Experience – Viking’s ocean ships are smaller than traditional cruise ships, allowing them to access more intimate ports. 4. Diverse Destinations – They offer a wide range of itineraries, including European river cruises, ocean voyages around the world, and expeditions to remote regions. 5. Comfortable Accommodations – Viking ships feature all veranda staterooms and comfortable public spaces. 6. Scandinavian Design – Viking ships reflect Scandinavian design principles, with clean lines and a focus on light and space. 7. Target Audience – Viking Cruises primarily targets well-traveled, affluent adults who appreciate cultural enrichment and luxury experiences. 8. Expansion and Innovation – Viking has expanded from river cruising to ocean and expedition cruises, and continues to develop new ships and itineraries.

This Smoked Tomato Vellutata recipe is tasty!

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