Italian Sausage Soup Recipe

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Cook Time: 40 minutes

Italian Sausage Soup

Original recipe (1X) yields 6 servings

Ingredients

• 1 pound Italian sausage
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 (14 ounce) cans beef broth
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can Italian-style stewed tomatoes
• 1 cup sliced carrots
• teaspoon salt
• teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can great Northern beans, undrained
• 2 small zucchini, cubed
• 2 cups spinach - packed, rinsed and torn

Directions

Step 1: Gather all ingredients to have everything ready for cooking.

Step 2: Heat a stockpot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and garlic; cook and stir until browned, about 5 to 7 minutes.

Step 3: Stir in the beef broth, stewed tomatoes, and sliced carrots. Season with salt and pepper. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15 minutes.

Step 4: Add the undrained beans and cubed zucchini to the pot. Cover again and simmer for another 15 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender.

Step 5: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the spinach, then replace the lid and let the spinach wilt for a few minutes.

Step 6: Stir the soup until it's evenly mixed and warmed through. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	385
Total Fat	24g (31%)
Saturated Fat	9g (44%)
Cholesterol	58mg (19%)
Sodium	1259mg (55%)
Total Carbohydrate	23g (8%)
Dietary Fiber	6g (20%)
Total Sugars	4g
Protein	19g (38%)
Vitamin C	20mg (22%)
Calcium	103mg (8%)
Iron	4mg (19%)
Potassium	810mg (17%)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is based on available data and may vary by ingredient.

History and Origins

Italian Sausage Soup, like many beloved Italian dishes, has its roots in the rustic kitchens of Italy, where ingredients were often humble but packed with flavor. The soup typically combines the rich, savory taste of Italian sausage with vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and spinach, simmered in a hearty broth. Though it's impossible to pinpoint exactly when this soup originated, it is often linked to the region of Tuscany, where hearty, comforting meals made with fresh, locally grown ingredients are a staple of the cuisine.

In the past, Italian Sausage Soup was a practical way for families to stretch ingredients, often making use of leftover sausage and vegetables. Today, the dish remains a favorite in Italian homes and restaurants, with various adaptations depending on available ingredients and regional preferences.

Regional Variations

Italian cuisine is famously diverse, and the soup variations reflect regional differences in taste and ingredient availability. In southern Italy, particularly in Calabria, the sausage may be spicier, while in northern regions like Lombardy, it may be milder, with more emphasis on herbs and root vegetables. Some regions may also add beans or pasta, such as ditalini, to create a more filling dish. The soup is flexible, making it easy for cooks to adjust based on local preferences or what ingredients are on hand.

In the United States, Italian Sausage Soup is often associated with comfort food and is a popular dish for family gatherings and potlucks. Its versatility makes it ideal for using up leftover vegetables or adjusting to dietary preferences, whether by swapping sausage types or adding extra greens.

Distinguishing Features

What sets Italian Sausage Soup apart from other soups is the bold flavor profile created by the sausage, which imparts a savory, sometimes spicy kick to the broth. This is complemented by the addition of beans, zucchini, and spinach, which balance out the richness of the meat. The combination of these ingredients creates a hearty, filling soup that's perfect for cooler months.

Unlike some other Italian soups, which may focus more on a tomato base (like minestrone), this soup's base is primarily beef broth, enhancing the meatiness and making it richer in flavor. It is also distinguished by the inclusion of Italian sausage, which adds a distinctively zesty note that can't be replicated by other types of meat.

Where It's Served

Italian Sausage Soup is a dish thats commonly found both in Italy and abroad. In Italy, it's often served as a main course in family gatherings or as a hearty starter in larger meals. It is a popular choice for home cooks looking to serve something filling and comforting with minimal preparation.

In the United States, it has become a popular menu item in Italian-American restaurants and is often served in family-style portions. Many variations of the soup are also served at community events like church suppers, potlucks, or holiday dinners. Its the kind of dish that encourages sharing and is loved for its warm, satisfying nature.

Interesting Facts

• While the soup is a well-known staple in Italian homes, it has also gained popularity in other countries, especially in the U.S., where Italian cuisine is widely embraced.
• The sausage used in this soup is typically made with pork, but many variations exist, with some using turkey sausage or even vegetarian sausages to cater to different dietary preferences.
• The soup is highly customizablemany cooks add extra vegetables such as beans, celery, or even potatoes to give the dish more texture and substance.
• In Italy, soup is often served with a side of crusty bread, perfect for dipping into the rich broth.
• Though the soup is delicious fresh, it also freezes well, making it a great make-ahead meal for busy weeks or for sharing with friends and family.

Conclusion

Italian Sausage Soup is a comforting and adaptable dish that has captured the hearts of many around the world. Whether served in the rolling hills of Tuscany or at a family gathering in the United States, its rich flavors and versatile ingredients make it a beloved classic. By combining simple, hearty ingredients with the bold flavors of Italian sausage, this soup has become a symbol of Italian culinary traditionone bowl at a time.

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