Mama's Kitchen
Italian Wedding Soup:
Italian Wedding Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that combines flavorful meatballs, fresh vegetables, and tender pasta in a savory broth. Despite its name, the soup is not traditionally served at weddings; rather, the term “wedding” is believed to refer to the harmonious marriage of ingredients in this delicious dish. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a wholesome bowl of soup, making Italian Wedding Soup at home is a rewarding culinary adventure.
Italian Wedding Soup:
Ingredients: For the Meatballs:
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Soup:
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup small pasta (such as acini di pepe or orzo)
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped spinach or kale
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all the meatball ingredients and mix well. Form small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a simmer. Add carrots and celery and cook until slightly softened.
- Gently drop the meatballs into the simmering broth and cook for about 10 minutes until they are cooked through.
- Add the pasta to the pot and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Stir in the chopped spinach or kale and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until wilted.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
Table Details:
| Step | Time Duration |
|---|---|
| 1 | 15 minutes |
| 2 | 10 minutes |
| 3 | 10 minutes |
| 4 | Variable (pasta cooking time) |
| 5 | 2-3 minutes |
| 6 | To taste |
FAQs: Q: Can I use pre-made meatballs for this soup? A: While you can use pre-made meatballs, making them from scratch adds a depth of flavor to the soup.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes, but keep in mind that small, bite-sized pasta works best.
Q: Can I make the soup ahead of time? A: Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time, but it’s advisable to cook the pasta separately and add it to individual servings to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Enjoy your homemade Italian Wedding Soup, a delightful blend of flavors that will warm both your heart and palate!