As the cool autumn wind whispers outside, your home fills with the scent of simmering broth and tender chicken. It’s like stepping into a cozy Italian kitchen. Chicken Pastina Soup, This soup, known as “Nonna’s Penicillin,” is a cherished comfort food passed down through generations. It’s a protein-rich, low-carb version, ideal for chilly days or when you’re not feeling well.
Growing up, seeing Nonna stir her cauldron of homemade chicken pastina soup always brought warmth and security. The mix of juicy chicken, tiny pasta, and fresh veggies was more than just a meal. It was a soothing elixir for the soul. Now, you can make this dish in your kitchen, capturing the essence of Italian tradition and Nonna’s love.
Key Takeaways
- Chicken Pastina Soup is a comforting, protein-forward Italian soup
- It’s a low-carb version of the classic recipe, perfect for cold days or when feeling under the weather
- The soup takes about 55 minutes to prepare and serves 10, with each serving containing approximately 142 calories
- This traditional dish, known as “Nonna’s Penicillin,” has been passed down through generations of Italian families
- The combination of chicken, tiny pasta, and fresh vegetables creates a soothing elixir for the soul
Understanding the Italian Heritage of Pastina Soup
Pastina soup, also known as Italian chicken soup or pastina in brodo, is a beloved part of Italian cooking. It’s a dish that Italian grandmothers (nonnas) love to make. They call it “Nonna’s Penicillin” because it makes everyone feel better.
Origins of Italian Grandmother’s Penicillin Soup
The story of pastina in brodo starts in Italy’s rich history. It’s a soup that families have enjoyed for years. It’s made with chicken broth, tender pasta, and veggies, which are thought to heal like medicine.
Traditional Role in Italian Culture
In Italy, pastina soup is more than just food. It’s a way to show love and care. Grandmothers make it to help their families feel better when they’re sick or upset.
Why It’s Called “Nonna’s Penicillin”
The name “Nonna’s Penicillin” for homemade chicken soup comes from its healing powers. The soup’s broth, pasta, and veggies help fight off sickness. They make you feel better and boost your immune system.
What Makes Chicken Pastina Soup Special
Chicken Pastina Soup is a favorite comfort food for kids and adults alike. It’s special because of its mix of tiny pasta, tender chicken, and flavorful veggies in a rich broth. This combination makes a warm, satisfying soup that everyone can enjoy.
The soup’s star is the pastina, tiny, star-shaped pasta. Its small size makes it easy to eat, perfect for kids. The pasta’s delicate texture goes well with the chicken and veggies, creating a tasty mix in every spoonful.
The soup also uses top-quality ingredients for its chicken soup base. It includes chicken, fresh veggies like carrots and onions, and a flavorful broth. These ingredients make the soup both satisfying and nourishing.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Black Pepper | 1/8 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/8 teaspoon |
| Chicken Stock | 1 cup |
| Onion | 1/2 (diced) |
| Water | 3 cups |
| Parmesan (grated) | 1/3 cup |
Chicken Pastina Soup is also versatile. You can use different small pasta shapes like Acini di pepe or Orzo. This lets you try new versions of the soup.
Chicken Pastina Soup is great for a cozy meal or a healthy option for your family. Its mix of ingredients, flexibility, and nourishment make it a favorite. It’s a comforting and nutritious soup that’s easy to make and enjoy.
Essential Ingredients for Authentic Chicken Pastina Soup
Making a comforting chicken pastina soup begins with the right ingredients. From the tiny pasta to the aromatic vegetables, each part is key. They all work together to bring out the true taste of this Italian classic. Let’s look at the must-have elements for this homemade chicken soup.
Types of Pastina to Use
The heart of pastina in brodo is the pastina itself. This small pasta comes in shapes like acini di pepe, stelline, or orzo. Its small size and shape make it perfect for the rich chicken broth soup.
Choosing the Right Chicken and Vegetables
For the chicken, you can use shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken. This adds substance and flavor to the soup. Onions, carrots, and celery are the traditional vegetables that give the broth its flavor. Adding garlic and herbs like rosemary or thyme can make it even tastier.
The Importance of Quality Broth
The quality of the chicken broth is crucial for a real homemade chicken soup. A rich broth is the base, adding the essence of chicken and vegetables. Simmering it for at least an hour and a half makes it flavorful and comforting for the pastina in brodo.
With these key ingredients, you’re ready to make a delicious chicken pastina soup. It will take you straight to Italy’s heart, where food traditions are cherished.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Make a delicious homemade chicken soup with the classic Italian chicken soup recipe from Nonna. Follow these simple steps to make a cozy easy chicken soup that will warm your heart.
- In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat.
- Add 1 diced small onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
- Add 2 chopped carrots and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Dice 1 medium potato and add it to the pot. Sauté for an additional 5 minutes.
- Pour in 8 cups of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Once simmering, add 1 cup of pastina and cook for 7-8 minutes until tender.
- Stir in 2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken and let the soup simmer for 20 minutes.
- Finally, remove a portion of the soup and carefully purée it using a blender or immersion blender. Return the puréed soup to the pot.
- Stir in ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Allow the Italian chicken soup to rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
This homemade chicken soup recipe serves 6 people and takes about 1 hour to prepare. Enjoy this easy chicken soup as a comforting and nourishing meal.
The Perfect Broth Base and Vegetable Preparation
To make a delicious chicken broth soup, start with top-notch homemade chicken broth. This broth is the base of your homemade chicken soup, adding deep, comforting flavors. Use a whole cooked chicken carcass, onion, carrot, celery, garlic, bay leaves, and fresh rosemary for the broth. Simmer it for 2-3 hours to get the most flavor.
Preparing the vegetables right is also key. Cut the carrots, celery, onion, and bell pepper into small, even pieces. This way, they cook evenly in the soup. A Vidalia Chop Wizard can help chop the veggies quickly. You’ll need about 1 pound of each vegetable, adding a vibrant golden color to your soup.
By using homemade chicken broth and prepping the veggies well, you’ll make a fantastic chicken pastina soup. These steps make sure every spoonful is full of rich, comforting flavor and a great texture.
Mastering the Pastina Cooking Process
To make a true pastina in brodo, or Italian chicken soup, cooking the pastina right is key. Don’t add uncooked pastina to the soup broth. This can make the pasta too soft and mushy.
Here’s how to cook the pastina perfectly:
- Cook the pastina as the package says. Usually, you add 1/3 cup of uncooked pastina to boiling water. Simmer for 6-8 minutes until it’s al dente.
- Drain the cooked pastina and keep it aside. The pasta will grow as it cooks, so it looks small at first.
- When it’s time to serve, add the cooked pastina to the hot broth. This way, you get the right mix of tender pasta and tasty broth.
- Save leftover cooked pastina from the soup. This keeps the pasta from getting too soft or soggy when you reheat the soup.
Learning this simple trick lets you enjoy the real pastina in brodo experience. Every bite will have the perfect mix of flavors and textures, making this Italian soup so comforting and tasty.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Kale, chopped | 3 cups packed |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Chicken breasts and/or thighs | 1 pound |
| Chicken or vegetable broth | 8 cups low sodium |
| Acini de pepe (pastina) | 3/4 cup (6 ounces) uncooked |
By following these easy steps, you can make the perfect pastina in brodo, or Italian chicken soup. You’ll get a great mix of tender pasta and flavorful broth in every bite.
Adding Premium Flavor Enhancers
Make your homemade chicken soup even better with a few easy steps. Start by adding a Parmesan rind to the Italian chicken soup broth while it cooks. This will add a deep, savory taste that goes well with the chicken and veggies.
Don’t forget to add fresh herbs for extra flavor. Add sprigs of rosemary and thyme towards the end. These herbs will make the soup smell amazing and taste robust.
Seasoning Tips
Season your homemade chicken soup with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. The right seasoning can really enhance the flavor. Top it off with high-quality Parmesan cheese for a final touch.
“The secret to a truly exceptional Italian chicken soup lies in the quality of the ingredients and the attention to detail during the cooking process.”
Storage Tips and Reheating Methods
Making homemade chicken soup is an art. But storing and reheating it right is just as important. With the right methods, you can enjoy your homemade chicken soup for days.
Your easy chicken soup can last 3-4 days in the fridge or up to 3 months in the freezer. Make sure to leave an inch of space at the top before freezing. This allows for expansion. Also, store pasta or noodles separately from the broth to avoid excess liquid.
Reheating your homemade chicken soup is easy. On the stovetop, just boil it for 3 minutes to kill bacteria. In the microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring often, until hot. If it’s too thick, add some chicken broth to thin it out.
| Storage Duration | Refrigerator | Freezer |
|---|---|---|
| Clear Soups or Broths | 3-5 days | 3 months |
| Creamy Soups | 3 days | Not Recommended |
| Seafood Soups | 2-3 days | 3 months |
To enjoy your homemade chicken soup for longer, store it right and reheat safely. Follow these simple tips to enjoy your soup’s comforting flavors anytime.
Serving Suggestions and Garnishing Ideas
Make your comfort food soup even better with great serving tips and garnishes for your Italian chicken soup. Pour the soup into bowls and top it with fresh Parmesan cheese and herbs like parsley or basil. This adds a rich flavor to the broth and makes the chicken and pasta tender.
For a fuller meal, try it with warm Italian bread. This lets you soak up all the broth. Or, serve it over rice for a gluten-free choice, or add homemade meatballs for more flavor and protein.
However you serve this comfort food soup, focus on enjoying the real Italian tastes and the warmth it brings. Enjoy it as a cozy lunch or dinner with family. Let the smells take you to a cozy Italian kitchen.
“Chicken pastina soup is the Italian grandmother’s penicillin for the soul. It’s a hug in a bowl, a comforting embrace that warms you from the inside out.”
Conclusion
Chicken Pastina Soup is a comforting dish from Italian tradition. It’s simple, nourishing, and delicious. It’s perfect for cold months or when you need a warm meal.
This soup is not just tasty but also healthy. It has protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The mix of pastina pasta, chicken, and veggies makes it nutritious.
Chicken Pastina Soup is easy to make and can be customized. It’s great for meal planning and cooking. Exploring its heritage brings joy and a true taste of homemade comfort.
FAQ
What is Chicken Pastina Soup?
Chicken Pastina Soup is a traditional Italian dish. It’s made with chicken, tiny pasta, and vegetables. It’s a comforting, protein-rich, and low-carb version of chicken noodle soup.
What are the origins of Pastina Soup?
Pastina soup comes from Italian culture. It’s often made by grandmothers for their families. It’s known as “Italian Grandmother’s Penicillin” because it’s seen as a cure-all.
Why is Chicken Pastina Soup special?
This soup is special because of its perfect mix of ingredients. It has tiny pasta, tender chicken, and various vegetables in a tasty broth. You can also customize it with different pasta and vegetables.
What are the key ingredients in Chicken Pastina Soup?
The main ingredients are pastina, chicken, and vegetables. Carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and high-quality chicken broth are used.
How do you cook Chicken Pastina Soup?
First, sauté the vegetables. Then, simmer them in broth and puree some of the soup. Cook the pastina and add the chicken. It takes about 35-40 minutes to cook, with 20 minutes to rest and let the flavors blend.
What is the importance of the broth and vegetable preparation in Chicken Pastina Soup?
Using homemade or high-quality store-bought broth is key for flavor. Dice the vegetables small for even cooking. A Vidalia Chop Wizard helps with efficient vegetable prep.
How do you cook the pastina in Chicken Pastina Soup?
Cook the pastina separately to avoid it soaking up too much broth. Add 1/3 cup of uncooked pastina to the soup. Cook as instructed on the package. The pasta will grow as it cooks, so don’t be fooled by its small size.
How can you enhance the flavor of Chicken Pastina Soup?
To enhance flavor, add a Parmesan rind to the broth while simmering. Use fresh rosemary and thyme for garnish. Season with kosher salt and black pepper. Grated Parmesan cheese is a must for garnish.
How can you store and reheat Chicken Pastina Soup?
Store the soup in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, add more broth if it’s too thick. Keep pasta separate to avoid it getting too wet.
How is Chicken Pastina Soup typically served?
Serve the soup hot, topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs. Pair it with warm Italian bread for a full meal. For a gluten-free option, serve with rice instead of pasta. You can also add tiny meatballs for extra protein and flavor.