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Ribollita Soup is a traditional Tuscan dish that embodies the essence of rustic Italian cooking. This hearty vegetable and bread soup is not only comforting but also packed with flavors and nutrients. Perfect for chilly evenings, Ribollita is made with a variety of seasonal vegetables, beans, and stale bread, creating a deliciously thick and satisfying meal. In this recipe, you’ll learn how to make this classic dish step by step, ensuring that you can enjoy a taste of Italy right in your own home.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup kale, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 4 cups stale bread, torn into pieces
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Step 2: Add the Remaining Vegetables
Stir in the diced zucchini and chopped kale. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the kale to wilt.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the canned diced tomatoes, cannellini beans, vegetable broth, and dried thyme to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
Step 4: Incorporate the Bread
Once the vegetables are tender, stir in the torn pieces of stale bread. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the bread has absorbed most of the broth and the soup has thickened.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Remove the pot from heat. Ladle the Ribollita Soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil if desired. Enjoy this comforting dish warm, and savor the rich flavors of Tuscany!
FAQs about Ribollita Soup
What is Ribollita Soup?
Ribollita Soup is a traditional Tuscan soup made with vegetables, beans, and stale bread. It is known for its hearty texture and rich flavors, making it a popular comfort food in Italy.
Can I make Ribollita Soup vegetarian?
Yes! This recipe is already vegetarian as it is made with vegetable broth and a variety of vegetables. Just ensure that you use vegetable broth for a completely vegetarian dish.
How long can I store Ribollita Soup?
Ribollita Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes well, so you can enjoy leftovers later!
Can I add other vegetables to Ribollita Soup?
Absolutely! Ribollita is a flexible recipe, and you can add any seasonal vegetables you have on hand, such as potatoes, green beans, or spinach.
Is Ribollita Soup gluten-free?
This recipe is not gluten-free due to the use of bread. However, you can substitute the bread with a gluten-free alternative to make it suitable for a gluten-free diet.
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