Core and cut "x" in bottom of tomatoes; plunge into boiling water 20 to 30 seconds or until skin begins to peel back. Plunge into ice water. Peel tomatoes; cut in halves. Seed and coarsely chop tomato; set aside.

Heat olive oil in large heavy saucepan. Add onions and garlic; cook 5 minutes or until transparent. Add flour, whisk over low heat 3 to 5 minutes. Do not brown.

Whisk in chicken broth, removing all lumps. Add half cup fresh basil. Heat mixture to a boil; reduce heat to simmer and cook 5 to 10 minutes. Whisk in tomato sauce, tomato juice and reserved chopped tomatoes. Simmer 10 minutes. With large spoon, skim froth from top as it forms. Whisk in cream; heat to a simmer. Skim again, if necessary. Add sugar and season with salt and white pepper. Ladle into warm cups or bowls and garnish with remaining basil and fresh crabmeat, if desired.

[makes 8 cups; 8 servings]