Lunch: Tuscan Tomato Bread Soup with Steamed Mussels

There are many versions of bread soup; this one, based on traditional peasant fare, is as thick as a bread pudding. The soup is delicious on its own, but we think the steamed mussels with their broth make a wonderful addition.

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Basil

Health benefits of Tuscan Tomato Bread Soup with Steamed Mussels

Basil is an excellent stress reliever, and has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Ingredients

6 tbsp. olive oil
1 onion
1 red bell pepper
6 cloves garlic
1/4 c. chopped fresh basil plus 2 tablespoons thin-sliced basil leaves
1/2 tsp. dried oregano
2 c. canned crushed tomatoes in thick puree (from one 28-ounce can)
1 1/4 lb. vine-ripened tomatoes (about 4)
1 c. canned low-sodium chicken broth or homemade stock
2 1/4 tsp. salt
1 pinch sugar
One 3/4-pound country loaf
1/4 tsp. fresh-ground black pepper
2 lb. mussels
1/4 c. dry white wine

Instructions

In a large saucepan, heat 4 tablespoons of the oil over moderately low heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, garlic, chopped basil and oregano. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is golden, about 10 minutes. Add the canned and fresh tomatoes, the broth, salt and sugar; bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low. Simmer, uncovered, until thick, about 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, heat the oven to 350 °F. Put the bread on a baking sheet and toast in the oven until crisp, about 25 minutes. Remove. Add the bread and the pepper to the sauce and bring to a simmer. Cook, stirring gently, until the bread absorbs all the liquid, about 5 minutes.
Discard any mussels that have broken shells or that don't clamp shut when tapped. Put the wine, mussels, and 1 tablespoon of the oil in a large stainless-steel saucepan. Cover and bring to a boil over high heat. Cook, shaking the pot occasionally, just until the mussels open, about 3 minutes. Discard any mussels that do not open. Mound the bread soup in shallow bowls and surround with the mussels and broth, leaving any grit in the pan. Drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon oil and sprinkle with the sliced basil.
Wine Recommendation: With such a regional dish, the wine almost has to come from Tuscany, too. Try a Rosso di Montalcino, Brunello's lighter, less costly cousin.