Description
Spicy Zuppa Toscana
Ingredients:
1 lb spicy Italian sausage
1 large onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
3 medium red potatoes, diced
2 cups kale
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions:
Cook sausage until crispy, then remove excess grease.
Sauté onions and garlic in the same pot.
Add chicken broth and potatoes, simmer until soft.
Mix in kale, cream, and extra red pepper flakes for heat.
Serve with crusty bread for dipping!
Do you like your soup spicy or mild? Let us know!
#SpicyToscanaSoup
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for the perfect Spicy Zuppa Toscana. First, in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, brown 1 lb of spicy Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it into crumbles. Once crispy, use a slotted spoon to transfer the sausage to a plate, leaving about 1 tablespoon of rendered fat in the pot. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent, then add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant. Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add the diced red potatoes and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender. Stir in the cooked sausage, 2 cups of chopped kale, 1 cup of heavy cream, and 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the kale is wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty soup is a complete meal in a bowl. Serve it piping hot in deep bowls alongside thick slices of warm, crusty bread like ciabatta or a baguette for dipping. For a restaurant-style touch, garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and an extra pinch of red pepper flakes. A simple side salad with a bright lemon vinaigrette helps balance the soup’s richness. For a lighter option, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the soup will be less creamy.
How-to Summary
In summary: Brown sausage and set aside. Sauté onion and garlic in the residual fat. Add broth and potatoes, then simmer until potatoes are tender. Return sausage to the pot, then stir in kale, cream, and red pepper flakes. Heat through and serve immediately with your chosen garnishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, but for best texture, add the kale and cream just before serving. Store the base (broth, potatoes, sausage) in the fridge for up to 3 days.
How can I make this soup less spicy? Use mild Italian sausage instead of spicy and omit the added red pepper flakes. You can always add heat at the end to individual bowls.
What can I use instead of kale? Fresh spinach or Swiss chard are excellent substitutes. Add spinach at the very end, as it wilts almost instantly.
Can I freeze Zuppa Toscana? It’s not recommended due to the dairy (cream) and potatoes, which can become grainy and break down when frozen and reheated.
How do I thicken the soup? For a thicker consistency, use a potato masher to gently crush some of the potatoes in the pot before adding the cream.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls: Do not skip deglazing the pot after sautéing the onions and garlic, as those browned bits are packed with flavor. Do not overcook the soup after adding the cream, as it can curdle if boiled vigorously—keep it at a gentle simmer. Do not add the kale too early; it should be added at the end to retain its color and texture. Finally, do not use pre-shredded bagged kale with thick stems, as they can be tough and bitter. Always remove the stems and chop the leaves.
Conclusion
This Spicy Zuppa Toscana recipe delivers the beloved, robust flavors of the classic restaurant soup right in your own kitchen. It’s a comforting, one-pot wonder that perfectly balances creamy richness, hearty potatoes and sausage, and a welcome kick of heat. By following the step-by-step guide and tips provided, you can easily avoid common mistakes and customize the spice level to your preference. We hope this becomes a new favorite in your soup rotation. Do you prefer your soup spicy or mild? Let us know!