3 cups cored, peeled, roughly chopped fresh, ripe tomatoes (about 2 lbs)

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 teaspoons sugar

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

6 basil leaves chopped

onions chopped small (optional)

croutons

• Place, peeled, chopped tomatoes, butter, sugar, salt and pepper into a small saucepan. Heat to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Let simmer for 20-30 minutes or until tomatoes are cooked, soft and the flavors have blended. Add chopped basil and add more butter, sugar, salt and pepper if needed for balance.

Add croutons.

Vegan version, substitute butter for soy margarine.