Seweryn Dominsky
Italiensk Bryllupssuppe, or Italian Wedding Soup, is a delightful combination of Italian tradition and comfort, wrapped warmly in a bowl. Its origins lie in the Neapolitan “minestra maritata,” which translates to “married soup,” symbolizing the perfect harmony of ingredients and flavors. Often served at weddings to symbolize unity, this dish is perfect for any gathering — whether it’s a festive occasion or a cozy family dinner.
With its robust flavors of rich chicken broth, tender meatballs, and vibrant vegetables, this soup is not only heartwarming but also nourishing. Packed with essential nutrients and relatively low in calories, Italiensk Bryllupssuppe is both a healthy and satisfying meal option that brings joy to every spoonful.
Ingredients:
– For the Meatballs:
– 300g ground beef
– 300g ground pork
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 50g breadcrumbs
– 50g grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– For the Soup:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1.5 liters chicken broth
– 100g small pasta, such as acini di pepe or orzo
– 200g fresh spinach or escarole, roughly chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Freshly grated Parmesan, for serving
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
– In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are uniformly combined.
– Roll the mixture into small meatballs, roughly 2.5 cm in diameter, and place them on a plate or baking sheet.
2. Brown the Meatballs:
– In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, and brown them on all sides. This should take about 5-6 minutes per batch. Once browned, remove the meatballs from the pot and set aside.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
– In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.
4. Simmer the Soup:
– Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and gently add the browned meatballs back into the pot.
– Let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the meatballs to cook through.
5. Add the Pasta:
– Stir in the pasta and continue to simmer until the pasta is al dente, following the package instructions (usually about 8-10 minutes).
6. Finish with Greens:
– Add the chopped spinach or escarole and stir until it wilts into the broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve:
– Ladle the soup into bowls, sprinkle generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and serve hot.
Cooking Tips:
– For extra flavor, you can deglaze the pot with a splash of white wine after browning the meatballs.
– If the soup becomes too thick, simply add more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair Italiensk Bryllupssuppe with a crusty Italian bread and a side salad for a well-rounded meal. A glass of light red wine, such as Chianti, complements the flavors beautifully, enhancing the experience of this heartwarming dish.
Secrets to the Perfect Italian Wedding Soup: Tips, Variations, and More
Discover the essence of Italian Wedding Soup, or Italiensk Bryllupssuppe, with these expert tips and delightful variations. Elevate this classic dish into a showstopper for any occasion.
Nutritional Facts
An average serving of Italian Wedding Soup contains approximately 300 calories, making it a hearty yet healthy choice. It’s a significant source of protein from the meatballs, essential vitamins from the vegetables, and the healthy fats from olive oil. For those monitoring sodium intake, consider using low-sodium chicken broth to reduce the sodium content.
Ingredient Substitutions
– Ground Meat: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the meatballs without sacrificing flavor.
– Breadcrumbs: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour for a gluten-free alternative.
– Greens: Kale or Swiss chard are excellent substitutes for spinach or escarole, adding a slightly different texture and flavor.
– Cheese: Pecorino Romano can be an excellent substitute for Parmesan, offering a more robust flavor.
Cooking Techniques
– Meatball Perfection: Ensure evenly sized meatballs by using a small ice cream scoop. This not only speeds up the process but also ensures they cook uniformly.
– Flavor Boost: Before adding the chicken broth, consider deglazing the pot with a splash of white wine. This technique lifts the browned bits from the bottom, enriching the broth with a deeper flavor.
Common Mistakes
– Overcrowding the Pan: When browning the meatballs, avoid overcrowding. This ensures they brown rather than steam, which is crucial for flavor development.
– Rushing the Greens: Add your greens just before serving to maintain their vibrant color and nutrients, as overcooking can lead to dull and mushy vegetables.
Variations
– Regional Flavors: In some regions, the addition of sausage or pancetta is a popular twist, offering a spicier or smoky depth to the traditional flavor.
– Vegetarian Option: Omit the meatballs and add hearty white beans for a protein-rich vegetarian version. Consider adding more aromatic herbs such as thyme and rosemary for extra flavor.
Seasonal Suggestions
– Summer: Replace the traditional pasta with zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a lighter, summer-friendly version.
– Autumn/Winter: Incorporate a dash of nutmeg and use pumpkin puree for a seasonal touch to the broth, adding warmth and a hint of sweetness.
Sustainability Tips
– Local Ingredients: Utilize local, organic produce and meats when possible. This not only supports local agriculture but also ensures the freshest ingredients, leading to better-tasting soup.
– Eco-Friendly Packaging: If purchasing pre-made broth, opt for brands using eco-friendly packaging. Alternatively, make your own broth using vegetable scraps and leftover chicken bones, simmering them for a nutrient-rich base.
Storing Leftovers
Allow the soup to cool completely before storing it in airtight containers. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. When reheating, you may need to add additional broth or water to adjust the consistency.
Pairing Suggestions
Serve Italiensk Bryllupssuppe with a crusty piece of whole-wheat bread and a simple mixed greens salad dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. A glass of light red wine, such as Chianti, beautifully complements the dish, enhancing its traditional roots.
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