4 c. canned tomatoes, undrained
1 med. onion, chopped
1 stalk celery, chopped fine
4 c. milk, scalded
2 tbsp. flour for thickening
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 tbsp. butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Simmer tomatoes, onion and celery for 30 minutes.

Meanwhile scald milk and thicken with flour mixed with a little milk to make a paste.

Just before serving, add soda to tomatoes and as frothing subsides force through a sieve into hot milk mixture stirring constantly to prevent curdling. Add butter, salt and pepper. Serve at once.

Basil, oregano and thyme can be added for more flavor if desired.