Zuppa Toscana Soup
How to make Zuppa Toscana Soup
Ingredients:
Potatoes
32 oz chicken broth
16 oz heavy cream
1 lb ground Italian sausage
Chopped bacon
Onion
Garlic
Kale
Shredded Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
Get big soup pan
Brown the sausage and bacon add onion and garlic and let cook for a few minutes.
Add the chicken broth, the diced potatoes, let cook until potatoes are soft, about 30 minutes, then add the chopped kale and let that cook for about 10 minutes
Add the heavy whipping cream and heat through.
Top with shredded Parmesan cheese.
We serve with dinner rolls. It’s delicious!!
Notes:
Choose the Right Potatoes: Use russet potatoes for a creamy texture. They break down slightly during cooking, thickening the soup naturally.
Brown the Meat for Flavor: Browning the Italian sausage and bacon adds depth of flavor to the soup. Don’t rush this step; allow the meat to caramelize slightly for maximum flavor.
Sauté Aromatics: Cooking the onion and garlic after browning the meat allows them to release their flavors into the soup. Saute until softened and aromatic.
Simmer Slowly: Let the soup simmer gently after adding the chicken broth and potatoes. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a rich and flavorful soup base.
Adjust Seasonings: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. Depending on the saltiness of the chicken broth and the seasoning in the sausage, you may need to add salt and pepper to taste.
Don’t Overcook the Kale: Add the chopped kale towards the end of cooking to retain its bright green color and slightly crisp texture. Overcooking can make it mushy and dull in color.
Control the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the cooked potatoes against the side of the pot with a spoon or use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup. Conversely, if it’s too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth to thin it out.
Finish with Cream: Stir in the heavy cream at the end and heat through gently. Be careful not to boil the soup once the cream is added to prevent curdling.
Garnish with Cheese: The shredded Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor to the soup. Sprinkle it on top just before serving for a finishing touch.
Serve with Bread: Zuppa Toscana pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or dinner rolls. The bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 350 calories | Protein: 10 grams | Carbohydrates: 15 grams | Dietary Fiber: 2 grams | Fat: 25 grams
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use a substitute for heavy cream to make the soup lighter?
Yes, you can use a lighter alternative like half-and-half or whole milk to reduce the calorie and fat content.
However, keep in mind that this will alter the texture and richness of the soup.
What type of sausage works best in this soup?
Traditional Zuppa Toscana uses Italian sausage, but you can choose between sweet or spicy based on your preference.
You can also opt for turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option.
Is there a vegetarian version of Zuppa Toscana?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by using plant-based sausage and substituting vegetable broth for chicken broth.
It won’t be the same as the original, but it can still be delicious.
Can I prepare this soup in advance and reheat it?
Yes, you can make Zuppa Toscana ahead of time.
Allow it to cool, then refrigerate it.
Reheat gently on the stove, adding extra broth or cream if needed to reach your desired consistency.
What are some suitable side dishes to serve with Zuppa Toscana?
Common accompaniments include dinner rolls, crusty bread, or a simple green salad.
These pair well with the soup and complete the meal.
Can I use different types of potatoes in this soup?
While russet potatoes are commonly used in Zuppa Toscana, you can experiment with other varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a slightly different texture and flavor.
Is it possible to make this soup less calorie-dense?
To reduce the calorie content, you can use a lower-fat milk or cream alternative instead of heavy cream.
Additionally, consider using turkey sausage or reducing the amount of bacon.
What can I use as a substitute for kale in this soup?
If you’re not a fan of kale, you can substitute it with spinach or Swiss chard, which have a milder flavor and cook quickly.
How can I adjust the spice level of Zuppa Toscana?
The spice level primarily depends on the Italian sausage you choose.
To make it milder, opt for sweet Italian sausage, or for extra heat, select spicy Italian sausage.
You can also add red pepper flakes for an additional kick.
Can I freeze Zuppa Toscana for later consumption?
While you can freeze this soup, keep in mind that the texture of the potatoes and cream may change upon thawing and reheating.
It’s best to store it in an airtight container for up to three months.
When reheating, you may need to adjust the consistency with extra broth or cream.