Ret Soup
Introduction
A comforting and classic Italian soup, Pastina Soup is perfect for chilly days or when you need a warm, nourishing meal. This simple yet delicious dish is made with tiny pasta, flavorful broth, and a touch of Parmesan for a creamy finish.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 liter chicken broth
200 grams pastina pasta
1 egg, beaten
50 grams Parmesan cheese, grated
10 grams butter
5 grams salt
2 grams black pepper
5 grams fresh parsley, chopped
Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broth
In a medium pot, bring the chicken broth to a gentle boil over medium heat.
Step 2: Cook the Pastina
Add the pastina pasta to the boiling broth and cook according to the package instructions, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Adjust Heat
Once the pasta is tender, reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Incorporate the Egg
Slowly drizzle the beaten egg into the pot, stirring continuously. This will create delicate ribbons of egg throughout the soup.
Step 5: Add Creaminess
Stir in the butter, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper until everything is well combined, creating a creamy finish.
Step 6: Let Rest
Remove the pot from heat and let the soup rest for a minute to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Garnish the soup with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm in bowls.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
Pastina soup pairs well with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat.
Variations
Feel free to add cooked vegetables or shredded chicken for added nutrition and flavor. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Storage Instructions
Refrigeration
Store any leftover Pastina Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to the container.
Freezing
You can also freeze the soup for up to 2 months. However, it’s best to omit the egg and Parmesan cheese before freezing, as they can change texture upon thawing. Once ready to serve, reheat the soup on the stove and add freshly beaten egg and cheese for optimal taste and texture.
Reheating
To reheat, place the soup in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through. If it appears thickened, you can add a bit of extra broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Pastina Soup with a side of crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping. You can also add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil on top for an enhanced flavor profile. For a little kick, consider serving with crushed red pepper flakes. Pair this comforting soup with a light salad for a wholesome meal.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (estimated):
Calories: 230
Total Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 29g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 1g
Protein: 8g
Please note that these values can vary based on specific brands and preparation methods.
Ingredient Substitutions
– Chicken Broth: Substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
– Pastina Pasta: Use any small pasta shape (such as orzo, ditalini, or tiny shells) if pastina isn’t available.
– Egg: For a vegan option, omit the egg and consider using silken tofu blended until smooth for creaminess.
– Parmesan Cheese: Nutritional yeast can be used as a dairy-free alternative to provide a cheesy flavor.
– Butter: Use olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute for a healthier or vegan option.
– Fresh Parsley: Any fresh herb such as basil or cilantro can be used to garnish or add flavor to the soup.
Cook Techniques
Boiling
To achieve the perfect texture for pastina, bring the chicken broth to a gentle boil before adding the pasta. This ensures even cooking and optimal flavor absorption.
Drizzling Technique
When adding the beaten egg, drizzle it slowly into the soup while stirring continuously. This creates beautiful ribbons of egg rather than clumps, enhancing the soup’s texture.
Incorporating Ingredients
After cooking the pastina, reduce heat before stirring in butter and Parmesan. This prevents the cheese from clumping and helps achieve a creamy finish.
Garnishing
Fresh parsley not only adds color but also elevates the flavor profile of the soup. Make sure to add it just before serving for the best taste.
FAQ
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth to make a vegetarian version of Pastina Soup.
What if I don’t have pastina pasta?
You can use any small pasta shape like acini di pepe, orzo, or even broken spaghetti as alternatives.
How can I make this soup creamier?
For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of heavy cream or more Parmesan cheese during the incorporation step.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftover Pastina Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It may thicken, so you might need to add more broth when reheating.
Is this soup gluten-free?
No, traditional pastina is made from wheat. However, you can find gluten-free small pasta options if needed.
Conclusion
Pastina Soup is the epitome of comfort food, offering warmth and nourishment in each spoonful. Its simplicity allows for easy preparation, making it an ideal choice for any home cook looking to enjoy a delightful, hearty meal. The combination of pastina, broth, and Parmesan creates a creamy texture that is sure to warm your soul, perfect for chilly days or when you simply need a cozy dish to lift your spirits.
Vegetable Pastina Soup
Add chopped seasonal vegetables like carrots, peas, and spinach to the soup for an extra boost of nutrition and flavor.
Chicken and Pastina Soup
Incorporate shredded rotisserie chicken for a heartier version, making it an ideal choice for using leftover chicken.
Spicy Pastina Soup
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, enhancing the flavor profile and making it a bit more exciting.
Broccoli and Cheese Pastina Soup
Stir in steamed broccoli florets and additional cheese for a delicious broccoli-cheese variation that kids will love.
Lemon Zest Pastina Soup
A touch of lemon zest can brighten up the flavors, adding a refreshing citrus twist that complements the dish beautifully.
Herb-Infused Pastina Soup
Experiment with different herbs like thyme, basil, or dill to create a unique twist on the classic recipe, enhancing its aromatic qualities.
