Minestrone with bacon
4 servings
30 minutes
Minestrone with bacon is a fragrant, rich Italian soup that reflects the essence of home cooking. Minestrone originated in Italy as a peasant dish combining seasonal vegetables, legumes, and pasta. In this version, tender bacon adds richness and a light smoky note to the soup, perfectly complementing the sweetness of carrots and tomatoes. Each spoonful is a harmony of flavors where the softness of beans blends with the mild spiciness of black pepper and the freshness of celery. This soup can be served as a standalone dish, especially in cool weather when you want to warm up and enjoy a cozy, rich taste. Minestrone pairs wonderfully with parmesan and olive oil, adding depth and sophistication. A classic European delight for the soul and body!
1
Clean the celery stalks from the leaves and chop finely, do the same with the carrots and onions.
- Celery stalk: 2 pieces
- Carrot: 2 pieces
- Onion: 1 piece
2
Pour olive oil into a saucepan. Heat it, add bacon (if you are making soup with bacon) and chopped onion. Sauté for 1-2 minutes.
- Olive oil: to taste
- Bacon: 50 g
- Onion: 1 piece
3
Add celery, carrots, and other vegetables, cover with a lid, and simmer on very low heat for 10-12 minutes until the vegetables are soft, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom.
- Celery stalk: 2 pieces
- Carrot: 2 pieces
4
Pour water over the vegetables, add salt and pepper, and bring to a boil.
- Salt: to taste
- Ground black pepper: to taste
5
Keep on low heat, avoiding strong boiling, for 20-30 minutes, then add tomatoes, broth cube, and leave on heat for 5 minutes.
- Canned tomatoes: 2 jars
- Bouillon cube: 1 piece
6
Drain the canned beans into a colander and add them to the soup, then add the pasta (if you are making a dish with pasta). Cook until the pasta is done. If too much liquid has evaporated, add hot water. Do not allow it to boil vigorously.
- White beans: 1 jar
- Tomato paste: 100 g
7
Pour the soup into bowls, drizzle with olive oil, and top with grated Parmesan if desired. Serve very hot.
- Olive oil: to taste
- Parmesan cheese: to taste