Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) Italian sausage (spicy or mild), casings removed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups (946ml) chicken broth
- 4 cups (946ml) water
- 3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it up into smaller pieces with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through.
- Add the chopped onion to the pot with the cooked sausage and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Pour the chicken broth and water into the pot, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the diced potatoes to the pot and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Once the potatoes are cooked, stir in the chopped kale and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the kale is wilted and tender.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Let the soup simmer gently for a few minutes to heat through.
- Season the Zuppa Toscana with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if using), adjusting to taste.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Enjoy your super-delicious Zuppa Toscana as a comforting and satisfying meal, perfect for chilly days or any time you crave a hearty soup!
- This recipe yields about 6 servings. Feel free to customize it by adjusting the spice level of the Italian sausage or adding extra ingredients like bacon or cannellini beans for additional flavor and texture.
FAQs:
1. What ingredients are essential for an authentic Zuppa Toscana?
Answer: The essential ingredients for an authentic Zuppa Toscana include Italian sausage (preferably spicy), potatoes, kale, onions, garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, and bacon. These ingredients create the rich and hearty flavor that is characteristic of this popular soup.
2. Can I use a substitute for heavy cream to make the soup lighter?
Answer: Yes, you can use substitutes for heavy cream to make the soup lighter. Options include half-and-half, whole milk, or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or almond milk. Keep in mind that using a lighter substitute may change the soup’s richness and creaminess. For a thicker consistency, you can also stir in a slurry made from cornstarch and water.
3. How can I make Zuppa Toscana ahead of time?
Answer: To make Zuppa Toscana ahead of time, you can prepare the soup up to the point of adding the cream and kale. Cook the sausage, potatoes, onions, garlic, and broth as directed, then let the soup cool and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the soup on the stove, then add the cream and kale and cook until the kale is wilted and the soup is heated through. This ensures the best texture and flavor.
4. Can I use other greens besides kale in Zuppa Toscana?
Answer: Yes, you can use other greens besides kale in Zuppa Toscana. Spinach, Swiss chard, or collard greens are good alternatives. Spinach cooks quickly and can be added just before serving, while Swiss chard and collard greens should be added earlier to allow them to soften properly.
5. How do I store and reheat leftover Zuppa Toscana?
Answer: Store leftover Zuppa Toscana in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the soup in a pot over medium heat on the stove until it is warmed through, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened too much in the fridge, you can add a little extra chicken broth or water to reach the desired consistency. Avoid bringing it to a full boil, as this can cause the cream to separate.