📑 Table of Contents ▶

Comforting Italian Penicillin Soup
Fundamentals
Preparation/setup
Directions
Techniques in Crafting Italian Penicillin Soup
Technique
Tips/tricks
Perfecting Italian Penicillin Soup
Perfecting results
Troubleshooting/variations
Serving and Storing Italian Penicillin Soup
Serving/presentation
Pairings/storage
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Italian Penicillin Soup

Name: Italian Penicillin Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 large onion (diced, about 1 cup); 3 medium carrots (sliced into rounds); 3 stalks celery (chopped); 4 cloves garlic (minced); 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth); 1 whole chicken breast (bone-in, skin-on, about 1 pound); 2 bay leaves; 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini, orzo, or shells); 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme; 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and black pepper (to taste); 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 0.25 cup fresh parsley (chopped); Parmigiano-Reggiano (freshly grated, optional); Extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling); Crusty Italian bread (for serving)

Eating a warm bowl of Italian Penicillin Soup brings back memories of chilly evenings spent with family. Whenever someone caught a cold, we made this comforting dish, believing it had healing powers that could chase away the sniffles. The aroma of sautéing vegetables and simmering chicken broth signaled warmth and care permeating through the house.

This dish, rich in flavor and nutrients, feels like a warm hug. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and small pasta resonates with simplicity and home-cooked goodness. It’s a recipe that transforms basic ingredients into sheer comfort.

Recreating this Italian Penicillin Soup not only nourishes the body but also nourishes the soul. With an unbeatable blend of herbs, a touch of heat, and fresh lemon juice, this soup stands as a testament to how food has the power to connect us. Cooking it stirs up feelings of joy and togetherness, combining warmth and tradition, dish after dish. Let’s dive in and explore the delightful aspects of crafting this soup that so many people cherish.

Comforting Italian Penicillin Soup

Fundamentals

Italian Penicillin Soup represents comfort food at its finest. It’s a hearty blend featuring chicken, vegetables, and pasta swimming in a savory broth. Each element plays a vital role, contributing to the overall harmony of flavors and textures. The rich broth serves as the base, while the chicken fills the soup with protein, making it a balanced meal.

Using quality ingredients enhances the soup’s flavor profile. Extra virgin olive oil provides a smooth base, while fresh parsley adds a final, vibrant touch. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—the ability to create something delicious from humble beginnings.

Preparation/setup

To prepare for this comforting dish, gather all ingredients and tools. Chopping vegetables, mincing garlic, and shredding chicken ahead of time streamlines the cooking process. From diced onions to sliced carrots and chopped celery, having everything prepped ensures a smooth flow in the kitchen.

Start by heating the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. This oil provides a nutty backdrop, perfect for sautéing the vegetables. Next, incorporate the onion, carrots, and celery, and let them soften for a few minutes. This step builds the foundation of flavors. It’s important not to rush through this process; the slow sautéing allows natural sweetness to emerge, creating a rich aroma.

Ingredients

This soup showcases an array of fresh and wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you need:

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 large onion (diced, about 1 cup)
3 medium carrots (sliced into rounds)
3 stalks celery (chopped)
4 cloves garlic (minced)
8 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
1 whole chicken breast (bone-in, skin-on, about 1 pound)
2 bay leaves
1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini, orzo, or shells)

1 teaspoon dried oregano
0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper (to taste)
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
0.25 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
Parmigiano-Reggiano (freshly grated, optional)
Extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling)
Crusty Italian bread (for serving)

Directions

Now that the ingredients are lined up, let’s create the magic.

Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery for about 5 to 7 minutes until softened. This initial step will infuse the kitchen with an enticing aroma. Add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute without allowing it to brown.

Pour in the chicken broth, then add the whole chicken breast, bay leaves, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes if you’d like a hint of heat. Bring this concoction to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover partially and let it cook for 25 to 30 minutes.

After this time, remove the chicken breast from the pot, allowing it to cool slightly before shredding it with two forks. Discard any skin and bones, then return the tender shredded chicken to the pot. Season the soup with salt and pepper, adjusting to your preference.

Next, add your choice of small pasta and cook according to package directions, typically about 8 to 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once the pasta achieves an al dente texture, remove the bay leaves from the soup. Mix in the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley for brightness. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Now, the Italian Penicillin Soup is ready to ladle into bowls. If desired, garnish with freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Serve alongside crusty Italian bread for an unforgettable meal that warms the heart.

Techniques in Crafting Italian Penicillin Soup

Technique

Mastering the art of Italian Penicillin Soup involves understanding simple techniques that elevate the dish. Starting with a soffritto—sauteing aromatic vegetables like onion, carrot, and celery—forms the flavor base for many Italian recipes, this one included. The key is patience; letting the vegetables cook slowly allows their natural sugars to caramelize and deepen the flavor.

Once the base is ready, adding the broth brings everything together. The choice of low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth allows you to control salt levels, making this dish healthier. This flexibility ensures the soup remains light and digestible, a hallmark of good comfort food.

Tips/tricks

Incorporating fresh herbs can enhance the flavor substantially. Instead of just dried herbs, consider adding fresh oregano or thyme while the soup simmers for an aromatic punch. Fresh lemon juice at the end not only adds brightness but also balances the richness of the broth and chicken.

If you prefer a creamier texture, feel free to blend a portion of the soup before adding the pasta. This method creates a silky base while still maintaining chunky pieces of chicken and vegetables. For those who enjoy crunch, consider adding fresh parsley or even crispy pancetta on top just before serving.

Perfecting Italian Penicillin Soup

Perfecting results

The beauty of this Italian Penicillin Soup lies in its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with seasonal vegetables or different types of small pasta. Every variation can introduce a delightful twist to the recipe while retaining its comforting essence.

When cooking the pasta in the soup, stir frequently to avoid clumping. Cooking it just until al dente ensures it won’t become mushy after adding to the broth. This precise timing becomes crucial in achieving the perfect texture in every bite.

Troubleshooting/variations

If the soup becomes too thick, a splash more broth or water will help reach the desired consistency. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can transform the soup into a delightful spicy version if you’re in the mood for heat.

For a richer flavor, consider incorporating a parmesan rind during the simmering stage. This addition infuses the broth with robust umami notes. If you’re looking for additional protein, beans can be a hearty addition.

Serving and Storing Italian Penicillin Soup

Serving/presentation

Serving Italian Penicillin Soup can be as simple or as elaborate as you desire. A humble bowl topped with freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano transforms it into a comforting experience. Accompanying it with crusty Italian bread allows for a delightful dipping experience, enhancing each spoonful.

A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil just before serving adds an elegant touch, enriching the flavors. The bright green fresh parsley provides a welcoming contrast against the warm, golden broth, making the dish visually appealing as well.

Pairings/storage

Italian Penicillin Soup pairs beautifully with a light green salad or a slice of focaccia. These simple sides complement the soup without overpowering its flavors.

Storing leftovers becomes an easy affair. Let the soup cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions and thaw them as needed. Reheating on the stovetop or microwave brings back the magic of this delightful dish.

Consistently warming bowls of Italian Penicillin Soup prove that cooking is a way to care for ourselves and those around us. Enjoy this timeless recipe and let the comforting flavors become a part of your family traditions.