Dive into the comforting warmth of a hearty bowl of Minestrone soup, a classic Italian staple that's as versatile as it is delicious. This vibrant soup is a celebration of fresh vegetables, perfectly balanced herbs, and a rich, flavorful broth – a true testament to the magic of simple ingredients. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is designed to be accessible and adaptable to your preferences, allowing you to customize it with your favorite vegetables and pantry staples. The result is a deeply satisfying and nourishing meal, perfect for a chilly evening or a light yet fulfilling lunch.
Forget complicated recipes and time-consuming preparations; this Minestrone soup is surprisingly easy to make. Ready to transform humble vegetables into a culinary masterpiece? Let's embark on a step-by-step journey to create your own perfect bowl of Minestrone.
Tools Needed
Ingredients
- Cabbage
- Carrots
- Onions
- Potatoes
- Canned Tomatoes
- Bacon
- Water
- Ketchup
- Curry Powder
- Consommé
- Sugar
- Cooking Sake
- Grated Garlic
- Olive Oil
- Dried Parsley
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Vegetables
- Peel and cut potatoes into roughly 1cm cubes. Soak in water for 10 minutes.
- Peel and cut carrots into 8mm wide pieces.
- Cut onions into 1cm thick pieces.
- Roughly chop cabbage into 1-1.5cm wide pieces.
- Cut bacon into 5mm wide pieces.
- Drain and wipe potatoes.
Step 2. Sauté and Build Flavor
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry bacon until slightly browned and oil starts to release.
- Add carrots, onions, and potatoes to the pan. Fry for about a minute. Add garlic and fry for another minute.
- Add cabbage and fry for about 30 seconds.
- Add cooking sake, stir, cover, and steam for 2 minutes.
- Remove lid, stir well, and fry for about 30 seconds to evaporate alcohol.
- Add canned tomatoes, slightly crushing them to release moisture. Cook for about a minute and a half.
- Stir, scraping off any burnt bits. Add ketchup and let it bubble slightly.
Step 3. Simmer and Finish
- Mix vegetables with the tomato base.
- Add water, consommé, and sugar. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 4. Serve
- Check the tenderness of potatoes and carrots. Serve and garnish with dried parsley (optional).
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Tips
- Use your favorite vegetables!
- Lightly frying and steaming the vegetables brings out their flavor.
- Evaporating moisture from canned tomatoes and ketchup before combining removes sharpness and creates richness.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 200-250
- Fat: 5-8g
- Carbs: 30-35g
- Protein: 5-7g
FAQs
1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Minestrone soup tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. What can I substitute if I don't have all the vegetables listed?
Don't worry! Minestrone is very adaptable. Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand. Other good options include carrots, zucchini, spinach, or even leftover roasted vegetables.
So there you have it – a simple yet satisfying Minestrone soup recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the warmth and deliciousness of this classic Italian dish, perfect for any occasion. Now go forth and enjoy your homemade culinary masterpiece!