1 28 oz. can whole peeled tomatoes, crushed by hand
thinly sliced fresh basil and grated Asiago cheese (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
In a large pot, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion and celery and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Add flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes.
Slowly add milk, bay leaf, sugar and salt; stir and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
Add baking soda to tomatoes and stir to combine; add to pot and bring to a boil.