How to Make Pastina Soup Recipe Italian Penicillin Soup
Introduction
Pastina Soup, often referred to as “Italian Penicillin,” is the quintessential comfort food in many Italian households. This simple yet hearty soup is often served to children, the elderly, and anyone feeling under the weather. The tiny star-shaped pasta, known as pastina, is cooked in a rich broth and garnished with a touch of Parmesan cheese, creating a warm, soothing dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re fighting a cold, or simply in need of some comfort, this Pastina Soup is sure to hit the spot.
History
Pastina Soup has its roots in Italian culinary tradition, where it’s cherished as a staple in home kitchens. The name “pastina” means “little pasta” in Italian, and it’s a favorite for making quick, nourishing meals. Italian grandmothers, or “nonnas,” have been making this soup for generations, often calling it Italian Penicillin due to its nurturing qualities. The simplicity of the ingredients—broth, small pasta, tomatoes, and cheese—reflects the Italian philosophy of letting the quality of each component shine through.
Ingredients
- 6 cups Broth (chicken, vegetable, or beef)
- 1.5 cups Pastina pasta (small pasta shapes like stars, orzo, or acini di pepe)
- 6 Cherry tomatoes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
Instructions
- Prepare the Broth: Start by bringing 6 cups of broth to a boil in a large pot over high heat. Use chicken, vegetable, or beef broth depending on your preference.
- Prepare the Tomatoes: While the broth is heating, wash 6 cherry tomatoes and make an X-shaped incision at the bottom of each one. Heat some water in a kettle, transfer the hot water to a bowl, and soak the cherry tomatoes for 2 to 3 minutes. This step will make it easier to remove the skins.
- Peel the Tomatoes: After soaking, carefully remove the skins from the tomatoes using a knife. Chop the peeled tomatoes into small pieces and set them aside.
- Cook the Pasta: Once the broth reaches a rolling boil, add the chopped tomatoes to the pot. Then, stir in 1.5 cups of pastina pasta. Lower the heat to medium and cook the pasta according to the package instructions, usually about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Finish the Soup: When the pastina is cooked to your liking, turn off the heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil. Mix everything well with a wooden spoon until the cheese is melted and well-incorporated.
- Season to Taste: Finally, season the soup with freshly ground black pepper and salt to taste. Remember that the broth and Parmesan cheese already add saltiness, so adjust the seasoning carefully.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into warm bowls and serve it piping hot. This soup is best enjoyed immediately, while it’s still steaming and comforting.
Methods
The key to making a perfect Pastina Soup lies in its simplicity and attention to detail:
- Broth Selection: The type of broth you choose will influence the flavor profile of the soup. Chicken broth offers a classic, comforting taste, while vegetable broth is a great option for a lighter, vegetarian version.
- Tomato Preparation: Blanching and peeling the tomatoes is essential to avoid any unwanted texture in the soup, ensuring a smooth and cohesive dish.
- Pasta Cooking: Cooking the pastina directly in the broth allows it to absorb the rich flavors, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful soup.
Formation
Pastina Soup is formed by the harmonious blend of savory broth, tender pasta, and the subtle sweetness of fresh tomatoes. The Parmesan cheese adds depth and umami, creating a balanced and deeply satisfying dish. The small pasta shapes, which swell slightly in the broth, add a delightful texture that complements the smoothness of the soup.
Benefits
This soup is not just a comfort food but also offers several health benefits:
- Nourishing and Hydrating: The warm broth helps in hydration and soothes the throat, especially beneficial during cold and flu season.
- Light and Easy to Digest: Pastina is easy on the stomach, making this soup ideal for those recovering from illness or with delicate digestive systems.
- Versatile: You can customize the soup by adding vegetables, different herbs, or even proteins like shredded chicken, making it adaptable to various dietary needs.
Conclusion
Pastina Soup, or Italian Penicillin, is more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace from the heart of Italy. This simple yet flavorful dish embodies the essence of Italian cooking—where quality ingredients and time-honored techniques come together to create something truly special. Whether you’re nursing a cold or just in need of some soul-warming comfort, this soup will not disappoint. The tender pastina, rich broth, and touch of Parmesan will make you feel cared for and satisfied with every spoonful.
Lovers
This soup is especially beloved by children and those who grew up in Italian households, as it often brings back fond memories of family gatherings and the comforting care of a nonna’s kitchen. It’s also a favorite among anyone who appreciates simple, nourishing meals that are easy to prepare yet rich in flavor.
Methods
- Blanching: This method is used to easily peel the tomatoes by soaking them in hot water, which loosens the skin.
- Simmering: Cooking the pastina in simmering broth ensures the pasta absorbs all the flavors, resulting in a deeply flavorful soup.
- Incorporating Parmesan: Stirring in Parmesan cheese at the end adds a creamy, umami-rich depth to the soup, enhancing its comforting qualities.
This Pastina Soup recipe is a timeless Italian classic that delivers both flavor and comfort. Enjoy the warmth and nourishment of this homemade soup, perfect for any day when you need a little extra love in your bowl.