Picture this: a chilly evening, the kind that makes you crave something warm and indulgent. That’s when I stumbled upon this gem—an Easy Copycat Zuppa Toscana that wraps you in a cozy, flavorful hug. It’s like the culinary version of your favorite sweater, with a touch of nostalgia and a hint of adventure, all simmering in one pot.
Steps
- In a large pot, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat for 5-6 minutes until it is browned. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a plate.
- In the same pot, melt the butter and sauté the diced onions over medium heat until they become translucent. Add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another minute until it becomes fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, water, and add the potatoes, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the chopped kale and heavy cream into the pot. Add the cooked sausage back into the mixture and stir well.
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary. Serve the soup hot, garnished with grated parmesan cheese and bacon bits if desired.
Ingredients
- 1 pound spicy Italian ground sausage (or mild for a kid-friendly version)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ½ white onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 4-5 yellow potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 teaspoons salt (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 4 cups chopped kale
- Optional toppings: chopped bacon or bacon bits, grated parmesan cheese
Nutritional Values
Calories: 3332 kcal | Carbohydrates: 64 g | Protein: 100 g | Fat: 304 g | Saturated Fat: 152 g | Trans Fat: 4 g | Cholesterol: 984 mg | Sodium: 15396 mg | Potassium: 4336 mg | Fiber: 4 g | Sugar: 8 g | Vitamin A: 34252 IU | Vitamin C: 440 mg | Calcium: 964 mg | Iron: 12 mg
FAQ
- What is Zuppa Toscana?
- Zuppa Toscana is an Italian-inspired soup that translates to “Tuscan soup” or “Tuscan-style soup.” Traditionally, it contains a variety of vegetables, beans, potatoes, olive oil, spices, Italian bacon, and Tuscan bread. The American adaptation includes Italian sausage, bacon, garlic, heavy cream, potatoes, and kale, making it a hearty meal.
- Is Zuppa Toscana considered healthy?
- Zuppa Toscana can be a nutritious option as it is free from grains and gluten, making it suitable for those avoiding gluten. It includes kale, potatoes, onions, and garlic, which provide essential vitamins and minerals. However, the sausage, butter, and heavy cream add saturated fats, which can be reduced by using leaner meats and alternative dairy options.
- Can you freeze Zuppa Toscana?
- Yes, Zuppa Toscana can be frozen for up to two to three weeks. While the kale might brown and the potatoes may change color, the taste will remain intact. It’s advised not to freeze it for too long as the potatoes may become mushy upon reheating.
- What are some recommended side dishes to serve with Zuppa Toscana?
- While the soup is substantial enough to be a meal, it pairs well with a crusty baguette, a simple side salad, or Tomato Cucumber Salad. Roasted vegetables like Lemon Parmesan Roasted Asparagus or rolls can also complement the dish. Oyster crackers are another popular side, providing a crunchy texture.
- How can I adjust the recipe for different dietary preferences?
- For a lighter version, use lean Italian sausage such as chicken or turkey, and consider reducing the butter. You can substitute heavy cream with fat-free half-and-half or a plant-based milk like coconut milk, though this will result in a less creamy consistency.
Tips
- Adjust the Sausage: If you’re using regular ground sausage instead of spicy Italian, enhance the flavor by adding 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herb seasoning or Herbs de Provence, plus a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Healthier Alternatives: To reduce the saturated fat content, consider substituting the heavy cream with fat-free half-and-half or a plant-based alternative like coconut milk. You could also use a leaner Italian sausage, such as chicken or turkey, to lower the overall fat content.
- Freezing Tips: If you plan to freeze leftovers, consume them within two to three weeks to maintain the best texture and flavor. Be aware that the kale may brown and the potatoes could change color, though the taste will remain satisfactory.
- Complementary Sides: Enhance your meal with a crusty baguette for dipping, a simple side salad, or Lemon Parmesan Roasted Asparagus. Rolls or oyster crackers also make great accompaniments to this hearty soup.
Equipment
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven: Essential for cooking the soup and browning the sausage.
- Slotted Spoon: Useful for transferring the browned sausage to a plate.
- Chef’s Knife: Necessary for dicing onions, chopping kale, and cutting potatoes.
- Cutting Board: Needed for preparing the vegetables and other ingredients.
