Ingredients

  • 14 cup extra virgin olive oil, plus additional
  • extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
  • 1 large white onion, chopped
  • 1 large carrot, peeled and chopped
  • 1 large celery, stalk, chopped
  • 2 (28 ounce) cans plum tomatoes (Italian San Marzano, drained, seeded and chopped)
  • 6 large fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
  • 1 12 teaspoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 garlic clove, chopped
  • 6 ounces country bread, crusts trimmed, roughly torn (about 6 cups)
  • 4 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth

Method

  • Heat 1/4 cup oil in heavy large pot over medium heat.
  • Add chopped onion, carrot, and celery.
  • Saute until vegetables are very tender, stirring frequently, about 25 minutes.
  • Add tomatoes, basil, sugar, thyme, and garlic.
  • Bring to boil.
  • Reduce heat to medium cover and simmer 40 minutes, stirring frequently.
  • Add bread pieces and broth to pot.
  • Whisk vigorously to break up bread.
  • Cook until heated through, about 10 minutes.
  • Season to taste with salt and pepper.
  • Divide soup among bowls, drizzle with additional oil and serve.