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Homestyle Italian Penicillin Soup

Homestyle Italian Penicillin Soup

Homestyle Italian Penicillin Soup is a hearty, comforting soup that blends rustic Italian flavors with fresh vegetables, herbs, and creamy cannellini beans. This soul-soothing recipe is perfect for warming up on chilly days and can be easily customized for various dietary needs, offering a nourishing and satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 2 carrots, finely diced
  • 2 celery stalks, finely diced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 6 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
  • 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 parmesan rind
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vegetables: Start by finely dicing the onion, carrots, and celery. These will form the aromatic base that brings depth to your soup.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and diced onions, sautéing until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add Vegetables and Herbs: Stir in the diced carrots, celery, and Italian herbs (rosemary, thyme, oregano). Cook together for a few minutes to release their natural flavors.
  4. Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth: Add the crushed tomatoes to the pot, then pour in the broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to build the soup’s hearty base.
  5. Add Beans and Parmesan Rind: Introduce the drained and rinsed cannellini beans and parmesan rind into the simmering soup. Let it cook gently for at least 30 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
  6. Finish and Season: Remove the parmesan rind. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in fresh parsley just before serving to add brightness and a herby finish.

Notes

  • Use quality broth: A rich, homemade or well-chosen broth elevates the entire dish.
  • Don’t rush the simmer: Low and slow cooking blends flavors beautifully and develops texture.
  • Drain and rinse canned beans: Reduces excess sodium and enhances the overall flavor.
  • Fresh herbs over dried: When possible, fresh rosemary or thyme make the biggest impact in aroma.
  • Save the parmesan rind: It adds incredible depth and umami while simmering the soup.

Nutrition

Keywords: Italian soup, penicillin soup, homestyle soup, cannellini bean soup, comforting soup, gluten-free soup, hearty soup