Tomato and Basil Soup

• 50 g/2 oz unsalted butter
• 250 g/8

Melt the butter in a saucepan. Add the onions and cook gently until softened but not coloured. Stir from time to time with a wooden spoon.

Add the tomatoes whole, with skins and stalks, then add the sherry and sugar. No water is required at this stage. Stir well, cover, then simmer for 45–60 minutes. Stir occasionally.

Ladle the mixture into a liquidizer or food processor, and b