Intro:
If you’re craving the warmth and comfort of a cozy Italian meal that you can whip up in your own kitchen, then this homemade Zuppa Toscana recipe is just what you need. This hearty Tuscan soup, filled with savory Italian sausage, tender potatoes, kale, and a touch of cream, is a perfect choice for a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking this flavorful dish that will transport you to the heart of Tuscany.
Homemade Zuppa Toscana Recipe
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 3 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups kale, chopped
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up into bite-sized pieces as it browns. Once fully cooked and browned, remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside.
2. In the same pot, add the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent and aromatic, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and water, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for extra flavor. Bring the liquid to a simmer.
4. Add the sliced potatoes, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to the pot. Let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
5. Return the cooked Italian sausage to the pot. Stir in the chopped kale and simmer for another 5-10 minutes until the kale has wilted and the flavors have melded together.
6. Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently to incorporate. Let the soup heat through but do not boil once the cream has been added.
7. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Remember the sausage is already seasoned, so adjust accordingly.
8. Ladle the homemade Zuppa Toscana into bowls and serve hot, garnished with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Enjoy this homemade Zuppa Toscana with a side of crusty bread or a simple garden salad for a perfectly cozy and comforting meal that will warm you from the inside out.
This recipe yields about 6-8 servings, making it ideal for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. Feel free to customize the soup to your liking by adjusting the level of spiciness with the red pepper flakes or swapping the kale for spinach if you prefer.
With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this homemade Zuppa Toscana is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So put on some Italian music, pour yourself a glass of your favorite wine, and enjoy the taste of Tuscany right at your own dining table. Buon appetito!
