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Hearty Italian Penicillin Soup for Cozy Comfort

Italian Penicillin Soup, often affectionately referred to as “Sick Day Soup,” is a comforting and nourishing dish that warms both the body and soul. This hearty soup is rich in flavors and nutrients, making it a perfect remedy for cold days or when you’re feeling under the weather. With its blend of fresh vegetables, tender pasta, and savory broth, this soup captures the essence of Italian home cooking.

Origin of the Dish

The term “penicillin soup” is a playful nod to its reputation as a healing dish, often made by grandmothers to soothe ailments. This soup has roots in Italian-American cuisine, where it has been passed down through generations. The use of pastina (small pasta) and wholesome ingredients reflects the simplicity and heartiness typical of traditional Italian fare.

Ingredients

For Hearty Italian Penicillin Soup:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
• 3 ribs celery, sliced
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup pastina or any small pasta
• 1 lemon (juice only)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: Parmesan rind for added flavor
• Garnish: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley

Method of Preparation

1. Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
2. Add Broth: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the Parmesan rind if using. Bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 25 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
4. Blend: Remove the Parmesan rind (if used). Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can skip this step or blend only half of the soup.
5. Cook Pasta: Stir in the pastina and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 5-7 minutes.
6. Finish with Lemon: Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.

Cooking Tips and Common Mistakes

• Don’t Rush Sautéing: Allowing vegetables to sauté properly enhances their flavor.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, blend more of the vegetable mixture.
• Watch Pasta Cooking Time: Pastina cooks quickly; avoid overcooking it to prevent mushiness.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning gradually to achieve your desired flavor profile.

Serving Tips

This soup is best served hot with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. For an extra touch, drizzle some olive oil over each bowl before serving.

Health Benefits of Ingredients

• Vegetables: Rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants that support overall health.
• Chicken Broth: Provides hydration and essential nutrients; homemade broth is especially beneficial.
• Pastina: A source of carbohydrates that provides energy; opt for whole grain varieties for added fiber.
• Lemon Juice: Adds vitamin C and enhances flavor while aiding digestion.

Interesting Facts

• The term “pastina” refers specifically to tiny pasta shapes commonly used in soups.
• Many Italian families have their own variations of this soup, incorporating leftover meats or seasonal vegetables.

Summary Recipe

Ingredients:

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion (diced)
• 3 large carrots (sliced)
• 3 ribs celery (sliced)
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup pastina
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt & black pepper (to taste)
• Optional: Parmesan rind
• Garnish: Grated Parmesan & chopped parsley

Instructions:

1. Sauté onion, carrots, celery, and garlic in olive oil.
2. Add broth; bring to boil.
3. Simmer for 25 minutes until veggies are tender.
4. Blend soup until smooth (optional).
5. Stir in pastina; cook until al dente.
6. Add lemon juice; season to taste.
7. Serve hot with garnishes.

Italian Penicillin Soup is loved for its comforting nature and bold flavors that evoke feelings of home and warmth. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or when you’re feeling under the weather, this soup is sure to provide cozy comfort!

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