Experience the rich and comforting flavors of Traditional Zuppa Toscana. This classic Tuscan soup combines hearty sausage, tender potatoes, and fresh kale in a creamy broth, making it a perfect dish for any season. Follow this recipe to enjoy an authentic taste of Tuscany right at home.
Inspiring Quote
“The only real stumbling block is fear of failure. In cooking you’ve got to have a what-the-hell attitude.” – Julia Child
Recipe Description
Zuppa Toscana, or Tuscan Soup, is a beloved staple in Italian cuisine, particularly in the region of Tuscany. This hearty soup is traditionally made with Italian sausage, potatoes, kale, and a rich, creamy broth. Its origins lie in the rustic kitchens of Tuscany, where simple, high-quality ingredients are used to create dishes that are both flavorful and satisfying. Zuppa Toscana gained widespread popularity in the United States, thanks in part to its inclusion on the menu at a popular Italian restaurant chain. However, the authentic version remains a favorite for its comforting blend of savory sausage, tender vegetables, and luscious cream.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 3 large russet potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 4 cups kale, chopped and tough stems removed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
Procedure
- Cook the Sausage: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add Broth and Potatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Add the sliced potatoes and cook until they are tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- Add Kale and Sausage: Stir in the chopped kale and cooked sausage. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer until the kale is wilted and tender, about 5 minutes.
- Finish with Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Add crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of heat.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Conclusion
Enjoy your homemade Traditional Zuppa Toscana, a comforting and hearty soup that captures the essence of Tuscan cooking. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this soup is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.
Additional Notes
- For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk.
- Zuppa Toscana pairs well with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Beverage Pairings
Zuppa Toscana pairs well with:
- Wine: A light red wine such as Chianti or a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio complements the flavors of the soup.
- Beer: An Italian pilsner or a light ale works well with this dish.
- Non-alcoholic: Sparkling water with a twist of lemon or a hearty apple cider are great options.
