If you are a fan of Italian cuisine, chances are you have heard of Italian wedding soup. This hearty and flavorful soup is a classic dish that is perfect for any occasion. And when it comes to making Italian wedding soup, nobody does it better than the Barefoot Contessa herself, Ina Garten. In this article, we will share with you her recipe for Barefoot Contessa Italian wedding soup and some tips and tricks to make it even more delicious.
What is Italian Wedding Soup?
Italian wedding soup is a traditional Italian soup that is typically served at weddings. The name of the soup comes from the Italian phrase “minestra maritata,” which means “married soup.” The soup is made with meatballs, vegetables, and pasta, and it is known for its rich and savory flavor.
Ingredients
To make Barefoot Contessa Italian wedding soup, you will need the following ingredients: – 3/4 pound ground chicken – 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs – 2 cloves garlic, minced – 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley – 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – 1 egg, beaten – Salt and pepper to taste – Olive oil for cooking – 1 cup chopped onion – 1 cup chopped carrots – 3/4 cup chopped celery – 10 cups chicken broth – 1/2 cup dry white wine – 1 cup small pasta, such as tubetti or ditalini – 5 ounces baby spinach
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well. 2. Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. 3. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the meatballs and set them aside. 4. Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes. 5. Add the chicken broth and white wine to the pot and bring to a boil. 6. Add the pasta and meatballs to the pot and simmer until the pasta is cooked and the meatballs are heated through, about 10 minutes. 7. Stir in the baby spinach and cook until wilted, about 1 minute. 8. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Tips and Tricks
– To make the meatballs easier to roll, wet your hands with water before shaping them. – If you don’t have ground chicken, you can use ground turkey or pork instead. – If you like your soup to be more brothy, add an extra cup of chicken broth. – You can use any small pasta shape you like, such as orzo or acini di pepe. – If you are making the soup ahead of time, cook the pasta separately and add it to the soup just before serving to prevent it from getting mushy.
Conclusion
Barefoot Contessa Italian wedding soup is a delicious and easy recipe that is perfect for any occasion. With its flavorful meatballs, tender vegetables, and hearty pasta, it is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. And with the tips and tricks we’ve shared, you can make it even more delicious. So try it out and enjoy a taste of Italy in your own home.
FAQ
What is the origin of Italian wedding soup?
Italian wedding soup is a traditional Italian soup that is typically served at weddings. The name of the soup comes from the Italian phrase “minestra maritata,” which means “married soup.”
Can I use a different type of meat for the meatballs?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or pork instead of ground chicken.
Can I make the soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time. Cook the pasta separately and add it to the soup just before serving to prevent it from getting mushy.
