Warm Up Your Soul with This Rich Southern Italian Soup
Welcome to my recipe for Southern Italian Soup of Dried Favas, Potatoes, and Cauliflower. This unique soup recipe is inspired by the traditional soups made in Southern Italy using dried fava beans.
Growing up, my mother used to make this soup whenever she wanted us to feel cozy and warm on a chilly night. The comforting aroma of this soup wafting through the house was enough to lift our spirits and soothe our souls.
This recipe is simple yet delicious, featuring robust flavors from dried fava beans, tender potatoes, and a generous serving of cauliflower florets. What’s more, it is easy to prepare and can be ready in under an hour.
So if you are looking for a hearty and healthy soup recipe that will transport you straight to Southern Italy with its bold yet balanced flavors, then try making this delightful Italian soup dried fava today!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Folks, let me tell you, this Southern Italian Soup of Dried Favas, Potatoes, and Cauliflower is a recipe you’re going to want to try. Not only is it packed with healthy ingredients like fresh fava beans, potatoes, and cauliflower florets but also it’s a warm and comforting soup that will satisfy your cravings on any chilly evening.
Now, why do I love this recipe? Where do I start? This soup is beautifully balanced with an earthy flavor coming from the dried fava beans, complemented perfectly by the mild taste of potatoes and cauliflower florets. The texture of the vegetables in this soup is simply outstanding. The fresh fava beans are tender yet firm, while the potatoes and cauliflower remain bite-sized chunks. What’s more? The soup has a smooth and creamy consistency that will have you continuously going back for more.
And here’s the kicker; this soup is so versatile that you can easily tweak it according to your personal preferences. You can add a sprinkle of fresh ground pepper if you like it spicy or serve it with some pasta on the side if you need something more filling.
This recipe is inspired by the traditional Southern Italian soup made with dried favas (di fave) or broad beans. And let’s face it; nobody does soup quite like the Italians do, right? So give it a try; I assure you, you won’t be disappointed.
Ingredient List
Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients for this Southern Italian Soup of Dried Favas, Potatoes, and Cauliflower.
- 1 cup of dried fava beans (di fave)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 7 ounces of potatoes, peeled and cut into small cubes
- 1 cup of cauliflower florets
- 6 cups of water
- ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh ground pepper
You can easily find dried fava beans in most grocery stores. To save time, buy them already peeled or you can remove their shells yourself. If you cannot find fresh cauliflower, frozen one works just fine. The simple ingredient list belies the complexity of flavor this soup provides.
The Recipe How-To
Now for the fun part, let’s dive into cooking this delicious Southern Italian soup of dried favas, potatoes and cauliflower recipe!
Ingredients
You will need:
- 1 cup of dried fava beans
- 3 cups of water
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
- 1/2 head of cauliflower, cut into small florets
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
Instructions
- Soak the dried fava beans overnight in water. Doing this ensures that the skins soften a bit for a creamier texture.
- Rinse and drain the soaked fava beans and set them aside.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven heat up the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the onion and garlic to the pot and sauté until soft, about 6 minutes.
- Add the potato to the pot and keep cooking for another 5 minutes while stirring occasionally.
- Add the cauliflower florets to your pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes until they start to soften.
- Now add your soaked fava beans to the pot along with 3 cups of fresh water.
- Season with salt to taste and bring to boil before lowering the heat to a gentle simmering level.
- Let it cook gently, with covered lid for about an hour or until both potatoes and fava beans are cooked through.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is hearty enough on its own but can also pair nicely with some crusty bread or a simple pasta dish.
Enjoy your warm bowl of Southern Italian soup made with dried favas, potatoes, and cauliflower!
Substitutions and Variations
This Southern Italian Soup of Dried Favas, Potatoes, and Cauliflower is a delicious recipe that can be easily customized to your liking. Here are some suggestions for substitutions and variations:
– Vegetarian option: This soup is already vegetarian, but you can make it vegan by skipping the grated cheese when serving.
– Gluten-free option: If you want to make this soup gluten-free, replace the pasta with gluten-free pasta or omit it entirely.
– Broth instead of water: You can use vegetable broth instead of water to add more flavor to the soup.
– Different vegetables: You can substitute the cauliflower with broccoli or add other vegetables like zucchini or diced carrots.
– Bean substitutions: Use different types of beans in place of the fava beans such as pinto beans, broad beans, or shell beans.
– Spices and herbs: Add your favorite spices and herbs like thyme, oregano or rosemary. You can also add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
– Meat option: You can add some cooked Italian sausage or cooked pancetta for meat lovers. Alternatively, add shredded chicken for a heartier soup.
Remember to adjust cooking times accordingly if you make any changes to this recipe. Experimenting and making this recipe your own is part of the fun.
Serving and Pairing
At the end of a long day, there’s something comforting about enjoying a warm bowl of soup. This Southern Italian Soup of Dried Favas, Potatoes and Cauliflower has a rich, velvety texture and deep flavors that make it satisfying and fulfilling.
When serving this soup, I recommend garnishing it with some freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of fresh ground black pepper and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for added flavor. You can serve it with a side of garlic bread or crusty French bread to dip and soak up every last drop of the delicious broth.
If you’re looking for refreshing pairing options to balance the richness of the soup, try pairing it with a crisp garden salad or simple tomato bruschetta. A white wine such as Pinot Grigio helps to complement the subtle flavors in the soup without overpowering them.
This soup is a hearty and nourishing meal on its own but can also serve as an appetizer or side dish in larger portions. Whether enjoyed on a chilly winter evening or for lunch on a lazy summer day, this Southern Italian Soup is sure to be one of your new favorite comfort foods.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Some soups improve with a little rest, and this Southern Italian soup recipe happens to be one of them. The flavors meld together beautifully when it’s stored in the fridge overnight, so it’s an excellent dish to prepare ahead of time.
To make this soup in advance, simply follow the instructions as written, letting the soup cool down before storing it in an air-tight container. Store the soup in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze it for up to three months (if you choose to freeze the soup, make sure it has cooled completely before placing it in the freezer).
When you’re ready to serve, reheat the soup on medium-low heat on your stovetop or in the microwave until piping hot. If you find the texture is too thick, feel free to thin it out with a little bit of water.
Please note that as with many soups, this Southern Italian soup of dried favas, potatoes and cauliflower may thicken up over time as it sits in the fridge. If you have leftovers that are a bit too thick for your liking, add a bit of water or broth while reheating until you reach your desired consistency.
My recommendation is not to reheat this creamy soup multiple times because every time you do that, its flavor and texture change slightly. Instead, portion out the soup only as much as can be eaten in one sitting and store remaining portions for later use.
Tips for Perfect Results
When it comes to making a delicious Southern Italian soup of dried favas, potatoes, and cauliflower, there are a few key tips that can help ensure perfect results every time. Here are some tricks of the trade that I use whenever I prepare this dish.
First and foremost, make sure to use the best-quality ingredients you can find. This means using fresh vegetables and high-quality, extra virgin olive oil for the base of your soup. Additionally, be sure to seek out the best dried fava beans you can find – I recommend looking for small, cream-colored beans that have been carefully harvested and preserved.
Once you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s important to take your time with preparation. Soaking the dried favas overnight will help them cook more quickly and evenly when they’re added to the soup. You’ll also want to chop your onions and cauliflower florets into small pieces that will cook quickly and evenly.
When you’re ready to start cooking, be sure to bring your water to a full boil before adding any ingredients. This will help the flavors develop more fully and result in a richer, more complex soup. As you add ingredients like potatoes and cauliflower, be sure not to overcook them – you want them to be tender but still have a bit of texture.
Finally, don’t be afraid to season your soup generously with fresh ground pepper for a little kick of flavor. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with some different vegetable substitutions – chopped chicory or kale would be excellent additions for some added greenery.
By following these tips and tricks, you can create a beautiful Southern Italian soup of dried favas, potatoes, and cauliflower that is both hearty and delicious. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with some crusty bread or pasta, this soup is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.
Bottom Line
in the style of Malcolm Gladwell:
In summary, this Southern Italian soup with dried fava beans, potatoes, and cauliflower is a true masterpiece. Not only is it hearty and comforting, but it also incorporates a multitude of flavors and textures that leave your palate wanting more. The unique blend of spices and vegetables is guaranteed to please any crowd, making this recipe perfect for entertaining guests or serving as a weeknight meal.
But what truly sets this recipe apart is its versatility. With easy substitutions and variations, you can truly make it your own. Add in some fresh greens like kale or chicory for an extra nutritional boost, or top it with some shaved Parmesan cheese for a decadent touch.
And let’s not forget about the nutritional benefits. Dried fava beans are packed with protein and fiber, making them a great addition to any diet. Plus, with the added veggies like cauliflower and potatoes, you’re getting a well-rounded dose of vitamins and minerals that will keep you feeling healthy and satisfied.
So what are you waiting for? Give this Southern Italian soup with dried fava beans, potatoes, and cauliflower a try today. You won’t be disappointed.
Southern Italian Soup of Dried Favas, Potatoes, Cauliflower, And Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup plus extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 large onion, coarsely chopped
- 8 cups water
- 1/2 lb dried fava beans
- 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 1/2 cups cauliflower florets, chopped
- 2 ounces uncooked pasta, pieces spaghetti
- fresh ground pepper
Instructions
- In large heavy-bottomed stockpot, heat 1/4 cup olive oil over medium heat.
- Add onion and saute until soft and translucent, 7-9 minutes.
- Add water and fava beans and bring to boil.
- Reduce heat to medium and simmer til favas are nearly tender, about 1 hour.
- Add potatoes and cook til nearly tender, about 12 minutes.
- Add cauliflower and simmer til cooked through.
- Remove from heat and let stand to cool 10 minutes.
- Pour soup into blender or food processor, or use immersion blender. Puree until smooth.
- Return soup to stockpot and reheat over medium heat.
- Add more water to bring to desired consistency.
- Add salt to taste.
- In medium heavy skillet over medium heat, heat remaining 1 TBsp olive oil.
- When oil is hot, add pasta and stir well (Pasta will brown quickly).
- Fry stirring until pasta is is consistent light brown.
- Remove from skillet and drain on paper towels.
- Ladle soup into warm bowls.
- Dress with additional olive oil to taste, the fried pasta, and a generous dose of pepper, and serve.
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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