Italian Wedding Soup: A Hearty and Delicious Recipe

Introduction

Italian Wedding Soup is a classic dish that is hearty, comforting, and delicious. Despite its name, the soup is not actually served at weddings in Italy. Instead, the name comes from the Italian phrase “minestra maritata,” which means “married soup.” This refers to the way the ingredients in the soup, such as the meatballs and vegetables, are “married” together to create a harmonious and flavorful dish.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you will need:

• 450g ground beef
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup carrots, diced
• 1/2 cup celery, diced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup acini di pepe pasta
• 4 cups baby spinach

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and black pepper. Shape into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
4. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until softened.
5. Add the carrots and celery and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until slightly softened.
6. Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
7. Add the acini di pepe pasta and meatballs to the pot and simmer for another 10 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through.
8. Stir in the baby spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until wilted.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!

Variations

• Vegetarian: To make a vegetarian version of this soup, simply omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add some extra vegetables, such as zucchini or mushrooms, to bulk up the soup.
• Vegan: To make a vegan version of this soup, follow the vegetarian version above and also omit the egg and parmesan cheese. You can use a vegan substitute for the cheese, such as nutritional yeast.
• Gluten-free: To make a gluten-free version of this soup, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta. Make sure to check the labels of your chicken broth and parmesan cheese to ensure they are also gluten-free.
• Spicy: If you like a bit of heat in your soup, you can add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño peppers to the pot when you add the carrots and celery.

Conclusion

Italian Wedding Soup is a classic dish that is perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion. With its hearty meatballs, flavorful broth, and nutritious vegetables, this soup is sure to warm your heart and stomach. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of Italy in your own home!

FAQ

What is Italian Wedding Soup?

Italian Wedding Soup is a traditional Italian-American soup made with meatballs, vegetables, and pasta in a chicken broth.

What type of meatballs should I use for Italian Wedding Soup?

Traditionally, Italian Wedding Soup is made with beef and pork meatballs, but you can use any type of ground meat that you like.

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until you are ready to make the soup.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of small pasta for Italian Wedding Soup, such as orzo or ditalini. However, traditional Italian Wedding Soup is made with acini di pepe, which is a small, round pasta.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, you can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth if you prefer a vegetarian version of Italian Wedding Soup.

Can I add more vegetables to the soup?

Yes, you can add more vegetables to the soup, such as spinach, kale, or carrots. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I freeze Italian Wedding Soup?

Yes, you can freeze Italian Wedding Soup. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container and it will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Can I make Italian Wedding Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make Italian Wedding Soup in a slow cooker. Just follow the same recipe, but cook the soup on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Can I add cheese to Italian Wedding Soup?

Yes, you can add grated Parmesan cheese to Italian Wedding Soup for added flavor. Just sprinkle it on top of each bowl before serving.

Can I use store-bought meatballs instead of making my own?

Yes, you can use store-bought meatballs instead of making your own, but the flavor may not be as good as homemade meatballs.