Imagine a soul-warming dish that transforms humble ingredients into a culinary masterpiece - welcome to the world of Italian Tomato and Bread Soup! This incredible recipe is not just a meal, but a journey through traditional Italian countryside cooking. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, you'll create a hearty, incredibly delicious soup that tells a story of resourcefulness and flavor. Prepare to be transported to a cozy Italian kitchen where every spoonful promises comfort and pure gastronomic delight!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups stale bread, torn into pieces
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become soft and translucent, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release the garlic's aromatic flavors.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Sprinkle dried basil into the soup and season with salt and pepper. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and develop depth.
- Add the torn stale bread pieces directly into the simmering soup. Stir gently to help the bread absorb the liquid and break down slightly.
- Continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes until the bread is fully integrated and the soup has a thick, porridge-like consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Ladle the soup into serving bowls and garnish with fresh torn basil leaves.
- Serve hot and enjoy the rustic, comforting flavors of this traditional Italian soup.
Tips
- Use truly stale bread for the best texture - day-old or slightly hardened bread works perfectly and prevents food waste.
- Choose high-quality crushed tomatoes for a richer, more authentic flavor profile.
- Don't rush the sautéing of onions and garlic - taking time to develop their flavors creates a deeper taste foundation.
- For extra richness, consider adding a splash of good quality olive oil just before serving.
- If the soup becomes too thick, you can thin it with a little additional vegetable broth.
- Fresh basil is crucial - use it generously as a garnish to enhance the soup's aromatic qualities.
- This soup tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 176kcal
Carbohydrates: 24g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
