Zuppa Toscana (Tuscan Soup)

Zuppa Toscana (Tuscan Soup)

This hearty, creamy Italian soup is filled with potatoes, sausage, kale, and a rich broth. It’s a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for chilly days.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (spicy or mild, according to preference)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 cups (1.5L) chicken broth
• 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced (leave skin on)
• 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3 cups (90g) kale, torn into bite-sized pieces (stems removed)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk (optional for a lighter version)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Sausage:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Remove the sausage from its casing and crumble it into the pot. Cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. Once cooked, remove the sausage from the pot and set aside. Drain excess fat if necessary.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

1. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
2. Add the crushed red pepper flakes, if using, and cook for another 30 seconds.

3. Add the Broth and Potatoes:

1. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil.
2. Add the sliced potatoes and season with salt and pepper.
3. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 10–12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

4. Add the Kale and Cream:

1. Once the potatoes are tender, add the torn kale to the pot. Stir in the cooked sausage, and let it simmer for another 3–4 minutes until the kale has wilted.
2. Add the heavy cream and milk (if using), and stir to combine. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the soup to heat through and thicken slightly.

5. Adjust Seasoning:

• Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if needed.

6. Serve:

• Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy this delicious and comforting Zuppa Toscana! 🍲