classic grilled cheese + cream of tomato soup

INGREDIENTS

• 2 (28-ounce) cans whole tomatoes packed in juice, drained, 3 cups juice reserved
• 1 1/2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 large shallots, minced (about 1/2 cup)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• Pinch ground allspice
• 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 3/4 cups chicken stock, homemade or canned low-sodium
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons brandy or dry sherry
• Salt and cayenne pepper
• 3 ounces cheese (preferably mild cheddar) or combination of cheese, grated on large holes of box grater (about 3/4 cup)
• 4 slices (1/2 inch-thick) from white sandwich bread, such as Pepperidge Farm Toasting White
• 2 tablespoons butter (preferably salted), melted