Zuppa Toscana Recipe

Zuppa Toscana Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups (950 ml) chicken broth
• 4 cups (950 ml) water
• 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups kale or spinach, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat

Instructions:

1. Cook the Sausage:
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned and crumbled. Remove the sausage from the pot and drain the excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pot.
2. Cook the Bacon:
   • In the same pot, add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon pieces and set them aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pot.
3. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
   • Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add Broth and Potatoes:
   • Pour in the chicken broth and water, then add the diced potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 10-15 minutes.
5. Add the Cooked Sausage and Bacon:
   • Return the cooked sausage and bacon to the pot. Stir well to combine.
6. Add the Greens and Cream:
   • Stir in the chopped kale or spinach and the heavy cream. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the greens are wilted and the soup is heated through.
7. Season to Taste:
   • Season the soup with salt, pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
8. Serve:
   • Ladle the Zuppa Toscana into bowls and serve hot. This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping.

Notes:

• For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, though the soup will be less creamy.
• Kale is the traditional green used in Zuppa Toscana, but spinach is a good substitute if you prefer a milder flavor.

Enjoy this comforting and flavorful soup, perfect for a cozy dinner on a chilly day!