Minestra Soup
4 servings
30 minutes
Minestra soup is a traditional Italian dish with roots in rural cuisine. Its composition is a harmony of simple yet rich flavors. Cabbage, carrots, turnips, and potatoes form the base, while bacon adds a savory touch. Herbs like basil and thyme fill it with aroma. Minestra has a rich, warming taste and pairs wonderfully with grated cheese that adds softness and depth. In Italy, minestra is not just food but a symbol of home comfort and family meals. The dish is perfect for cold evenings when you crave something hearty and fragrant. It satisfies hunger while remaining healthy. This soup can be served as a standalone dish or as part of a multi-component Italian dinner accompanied by fresh bread and a glass of white wine.
1
Prepare the risotto. Cut the lean bacon into cubes and lightly fry with finely chopped onion until pale golden. Slice the white cabbage, carrot, turnip, leek, and potato, add basil, thyme, bay leaf, and sauté.
- Bacon: 150 g
- Onion: 50 g
- Turnip: 80 g
- Carrot: 80 g
- Leek: 40 g
- Potato: 160 g
- White cabbage: 100 g
- Basil: 6 g
- Bay leaf: 1 piece
- Salt: to taste
2
Pour in broth or water, add peeled tomatoes, green peas, and chopped bean pods, and simmer for 8-10 minutes, then add rice and bring to a boil.
- Green peas: 60 g
- Green beans: 50 g
- Rice: 30 g
3
Mash the remaining fatty bacon with garlic and add it to the soup. Serve grated cheese separately.
- Bacon: 150 g
- Garlic: 10 g
- Cheese: 60 g