Italian Wedding Soup

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Italian Wedding Soup: A Classic Comfort Food for Every Occasion

Italian Wedding Soup is a beloved dish that blends savory meatballs, vibrant vegetables, and rich broth into a comforting and hearty soup. Despite its name, Italian Wedding Soup is not traditionally associated with weddings, but rather refers to the “marriage” of flavors between the meatballs and vegetables. This soup is a staple in many Italian-American households, offering a delicious and satisfying meal that works for casual dinners, special occasions, or even a cozy holiday meal. Whether you’re making it for the first time or perfecting your family recipe, Italian Wedding Soup is sure to become a favorite.

The Origins and Meaning Behind Italian Wedding Soup

Italian Wedding Soup is believed to have originated in Italy, particularly in the southern regions, where the combination of meatballs and vegetables was a common pairing. The name “wedding” comes from the Italian phrase “minestra maritata,” which means “married soup,” referring to the harmonious blend of flavors between the meatballs and the broth. The dish has evolved over time, especially in the United States, where it has become an iconic comfort food enjoyed by many families.

In its traditional form, the soup includes small meatballs made from beef and pork, along with a variety of vegetables such as spinach, carrots, and celery. The addition of acini de pepe or orzo pasta further enhances the dish, giving it texture and making it a filling, one-pot meal. The soup is often served with a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese, adding a rich, tangy finish.

The Key Ingredients for a Perfect Italian Wedding Soup

Making Italian Wedding Soup requires a few key ingredients, each contributing to the overall flavor and texture of the soup. Let’s break down the components of both the meatballs and the soup itself.

Meatballs: Flavorful and Tender

The meatballs in Italian Wedding Soup are the heart of the dish. Combining ground beef and pork creates a rich, juicy base, while the herbs and breadcrumbs bring extra flavor and moisture. The following ingredients are needed to create the perfect meatballs:

  • 8 oz lean ground beef – Provides a rich, savory flavor and texture to the meatballs.
  • 8 oz ground pork – Adds juiciness and tenderness, balancing out the lean beef.
  • 1/2 cup fresh hearty white bread crumbs – The breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs together and give them a soft, tender texture.
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley – Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a bright, herbaceous flavor.
  • 1 1/2 tsp minced fresh oregano – Oregano is an essential herb in Italian cuisine, providing a warm, earthy flavor to the meatballs.
  • 1/2 cup finely shredded parmesan – Parmesan adds a savory, nutty flavor to the meatballs and helps hold them together.
  • 1 large egg – The egg acts as a binder and adds moisture to the meatballs.
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper – These simple seasonings enhance the overall flavor of the meatballs.
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil – Olive oil adds richness and helps brown the meatballs.

Soup: A Flavorful Base for the Meatballs

The soup base is just as important as the meatballs, creating a rich, savory broth that complements the tender meatballs and vegetables. The following ingredients are key to creating a well-balanced and delicious soup:

  • 1 Tbsp olive oil – Used to sauté the vegetables and add richness to the soup base.
  • 1 1/4 cups 1/4-inch diced carrots – Carrots add natural sweetness and color to the soup.
  • 1 1/4 cups diced yellow onion – Onion adds depth and savory sweetness to the broth.
  • 3/4 cup 1/4-inch diced celery – Celery contributes freshness and a subtle earthy flavor to the soup.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced (1 1/2 Tbsp) – Garlic is essential for infusing the soup with aromatic, savory flavor.
  • 5 (14.5 oz) cans low-sodium chicken broth – The chicken broth serves as the base of the soup, providing depth and richness without overpowering the other flavors.
  • 1 cup dry acini de pepe or orzo pasta – Both of these tiny pasta shapes are perfect for this soup, adding texture and absorbing the flavors of the broth.
  • 6 oz fresh spinach, chopped – Fresh spinach provides a vibrant, slightly earthy flavor and a pop of green color.
  • Finely shredded parmesan, for serving – A sprinkle of parmesan adds a creamy, salty finish to each bowl of soup.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Italian Wedding Soup

Now that we’ve gone over the ingredients, let’s dive into the steps for preparing this comforting soup. The process may take a bit of time, but the results are well worth the effort.

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

  1. Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground beef, ground pork, bread crumbs, chopped parsley, minced oregano, grated parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix the ingredients until well combined.
  2. Shape the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. This will yield around 30 meatballs, depending on the size.
  3. Brown the Meatballs: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Brown the meatballs in batches, cooking them until they are golden brown on all sides. Set the meatballs aside once they are browned.

Step 2: Prepare the Soup

  1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced carrots, onions, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are softened.
  2. Add the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add the Chicken Broth: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
  4. Add the Pasta: Once the broth is boiling, add the acini de pepe or orzo pasta. Cook for about 7-9 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.
  5. Add the Meatballs: Gently add the browned meatballs to the soup. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  6. Add the Spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and tender.

Step 3: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls, ensuring each serving includes a generous portion of meatballs, vegetables, pasta, and broth. Top with a sprinkle of finely shredded parmesan cheese for an added burst of flavor. Serve this heartwarming soup with a side of crusty bread for the perfect meal.

Why Italian Wedding Soup is a Must-Try Dish

Italian Wedding Soup is more than just a bowl of soup; it’s a comforting, soul-warming meal that brings families and friends together. The combination of juicy, flavorful meatballs, tender vegetables, and rich, aromatic broth creates a dish that is both satisfying and delicious. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply looking for a hearty meal, Italian Wedding Soup is the perfect choice.

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