Indulge in the rich flavors of Tuscany with our hearty Zuppa Toscana. This traditional Italian soup features tender potatoes, spicy sausage, and kale simmered in a creamy broth, creating a truly satisfying dish that's perfect for any occasion.
Here's a recipe for authentic Italian Zuppa Toscana:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (spicy or mild, based on preference)
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 3 cups water
- 2 large potatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1- In a large pot, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Once browned, remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside.
2- In the same pot, add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3- Pour in the chicken broth and water, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
4- Add the sliced potatoes, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
5- Stir in the cooked sausage and heavy cream. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
6- Add the chopped kale and simmer for another 5 minutes, until the kale is wilted and tender.
7- Serve the Zuppa Toscana hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!
Nutritional Values :
Here are the approximate nutritional values for the main ingredients in the Zuppa Toscana recipe per serving:
For the Soup Ingredients:
Italian Sausage (1 pound):
- Calories: 1,000
- Fat: 80 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Protein: 50 g
Benefits: Provides a significant amount of protein and flavor. High in fat, so consider using a leaner sausage or reducing the quantity if watching fat intake.
Bacon (4 slices, chopped):
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Protein: 12 g
Benefits: Adds flavor and richness. High in fat and sodium, so use in moderation.
Onion (1, chopped):
- Calories: 45
- Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 11 g
- Protein: 1 g
Benefits: Adds flavor and provides vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Garlic Cloves (3, minced):
- Calories: 15
- Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Protein: 0 g
Benefits: Adds flavor and has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Chicken Broth (4 cups):
- Calories: 40 (for low-sodium broth)
- Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Protein: 8 g
Benefits: Adds flavor with minimal calories. Contains vitamins and minerals.
Water (3 cups):
- Calories: 0
- Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Protein: 0 g
Benefits: Provides hydration and is essential for cooking.
Potatoes (2 large, sliced):
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Protein: 4 g
Benefits: Provides carbohydrates, fiber, and essential nutrients like vitamin C and potassium.
Salt (1 teaspoon):
- Calories: 0
- Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Protein: 0 g
Benefits: Enhances flavor. Manage salt intake to avoid excessive sodium.
Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon):
- Calories: 3
- Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Protein: 0 g
Benefits: Adds flavor and contains antioxidants.
Red Pepper Flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional):
- Calories: 3
- Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Protein: 0 g
Benefits: Adds heat and flavor. Contains antioxidants and can boost metabolism.
Heavy Cream (1 cup):
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 40 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Protein: 3 g
Benefits: Adds richness and creaminess but is high in fat and calories.
Kale (2 cups, chopped):
- Calories: 66
- Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Protein: 4 g
Benefits: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and contains antioxidants and fiber.
Grated Parmesan Cheese (for serving):
- Calories: 20 (per tablespoon)
- Fat: 1.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Protein: 2 g
Benefits: Adds flavor and protein. High in calcium but also in sodium.
Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used.
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