Our Favorite Tomato Soup

I have fond memories of running in and out of my grandpa's tomato growing greenhouse, with my closest cousin.  I still remember the distinctive smell of tomato plants and damp earth.  This was my Grandma Wiebe's recipe in the family cookbook.  I've revised it to use a 1L carton of tomato juice, though I hope someday to have my own greenhouse for growing tomatoes.  Truly comfort food; serve with grilled cheese sandwiches for a meal that warms the soul as well as the body.

1 (1L) carton tomato juice
1 tsp. salt (taste and add more as needed)
1/2 tsp. black pepper
1 1/2 T. parsley flakes
3 T. sugar
1-2 bay leaves
2 T. finely chopped celery
2 T. finely chopped onion
3 T. butter
3 T. flour
3 cups milk

Add tomato juice, salt, pepper, parsley flakes, sugar, and bay leaves to a saucepan.  Simmer for 10 min. 

In the meantime, add chopped onion and celery with a small amount of water to a microwave safe measuring cup.  Microwave on high for 2-3 min. until vegetables are tender.

Blend with a small amount of tomato juice until smooth.  Add to saucepan.

In another saucepan, melt butter.  Add flour and stir until smooth.  Whisk milk in gradually, and bring to a boil to make a white sauce.

When white sauce is thickened, add to the tomato mixture and stir.  It's ready to serve!

Note: Add more flour if you like a thicker soup.  Some brands of tomato juice may have more added salt than others, so start with less and add more to taste.