Rosa Mariana Soup (Italian Orzo Soup with Chicken and Tomato)
Rosa Mariana Soup, also known as Italian Orzo Soup, is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for cold days. With the combination of chicken, tomato, and herbs, this soup is rich in flavor and nutrition. The small, rice-like Rosa Marina pasta (or orzo) adds a delightful texture, making this soup filling and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch or a cozy dinner, this dish is sure to warm your soul. Below is a detailed recipe for making Rosa Mariana Soup with chicken and tomato.
Ingredients:
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic (crushed)
- 30 g (2 tbsp) butter
- 2 tsp thyme leaves
- 2 tsp rosemary (finely chopped)
- 1 litre chicken or vegetable stock
- 200 g (7 oz) Rosa Marina pasta (or orzo)
- 60 g (½ cup) tomato paste/puree
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional)
- 2 tsp Worcester sauce (optional)
- 60 ml (4 tbsp) heavy cream (optional)
- Salt to taste
- 1 tsp pepper
- 100 g (3 cups) spinach (optional)
- 200 g (7 oz) cooked shredded chicken (optional)
- 1 lemon (juice)
For Serving:
- Parmesan shavings
- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Begin by finely chopping the onion and crushing the garlic. If you’re using spinach, shred the chicken, and juice the lemon.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add the crushed garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Herbs and Seasonings:
- Stir in the thyme leaves and chopped rosemary. The fragrance of the herbs will immediately fill the kitchen, giving the soup its signature aroma.
- Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust to your taste.
- Add Stock and Tomato Paste:
- Pour in the chicken stock (or vegetable stock for a vegetarian option) and bring to a boil.
- Add the tomato paste/puree and stir well. The tomato paste gives the soup a rich, deep flavor that balances the herbs and adds an earthy undertone to the dish.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Once the stock is boiling, add the Rosa Marina pasta (or orzo). Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is tender but still slightly firm (al dente).
- Add Optional Ingredients:
- If using, add the balsamic vinegar and Worcester sauce. These ingredients add a touch of acidity and umami, balancing the richness of the soup.
- For a creamy finish, stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for a couple of minutes. The cream makes the soup velvety and smooth, enhancing the texture.
- Add Greens and Chicken:
- If you’re including spinach, add it now and stir it into the soup. The spinach will wilt down quickly and add a lovely green hue to the dish.
- Add the shredded chicken (if using), and stir it into the soup. The chicken makes the soup even heartier and more filling.
- Final Adjustments:
- Before serving, squeeze in the juice of one lemon to brighten the flavors of the soup. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or vinegar if needed.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with Parmesan shavings. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Rosa Mariana Soup:
- Chicken: If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken works great for this recipe. Simply shred the chicken and add it in.
- Make it Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock to make this dish vegetarian-friendly.
- Pasta Options: If you can’t find Rosa Marina pasta, you can substitute it with orzo or small shell pasta.
- Extra Creaminess: For an extra creamy texture, add a bit more heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese.
- Store and Reheat: This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. The flavors continue to develop, and it’s even more delicious the next day. Just reheat gently on the stove.
This Rosa Mariana Soup is the perfect blend of flavors and textures. The comforting chicken, the rich tomato paste, and the aromatic herbs make this soup truly special. It’s easy to make, customizable, and sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly day or as a weeknight dinner, this hearty Italian-inspired soup is sure to satisfy your hunger and warm your heart.
Enjoy your homemade Rosa Mariana Soup with a slice of crusty bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.