Instructions: Seed peppers and discard stems and ribs. Slice. Peel and slice onions. In heavy saucepan, combine peppers and onions with butter, cover pan and let vegetables sweat over very low heat about 10 to 15 minutes, until very soft. Stem tomatoes and cut into large chunks; do not seed or juice them.

Peel and lightly crush garlic. Add garlic, tomatoes, thyme and bay leaves to cooked onions and peppers. Season with salt and pepper and add chicken stock. Cook over medium heat 15 minutes, then put through the fine disk of a food mill or puree in a blender. If desired, add any of the herbs to vary the flavor. Chop herbs and remaining garlic. Pit olives if using, and chop.

Add chopped olives to Coulis.

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