4 bacon strips, minced
2 onions, diced (about 21⁄2 cups)
4 garlic cloves, minced (about 2 teaspoons)
4 medium zucchini, diced (7 to 8 cups)
6 cups chicken broth
4 plum tomatoes, peeled, seeded and chopped, (about 1 cup) 1⁄2 cup tomato puree
4 tablespoons tarragon or cider vinegar
2 tablespoons minced fresh basil
1⁄2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1⁄4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
8 cheddar rusks (see below)
Cheddar Rusks
Makes 8
8 slices French or Italian bread (1⁄2-inch thick)
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
