Tomato Refresher

Ingredients

• 3 (14 1/2-ounce) cans whole tomatoes, undrained
• 2 cups water
• 1 thin slice of onion
• 1 tablespoon butter or margarine
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 12 whole peppercorns
• 4 whole cloves
• 1 bay leaf
• Fresh parsley sprigs (optional)

Preparation

1. Combine all ingredients, except parsley, in a medium saucepan; stir well. Bring to a boil; reduce heat, and simmer 20 minutes.
2. Remove from heat; strain liquid into container, and discard tomatoes, onion, and whole spices. Serve soup hot or cold. Garnish with parsley, if desired.