What ingredients do you need?
Here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need:
- 4 cups of ripe tomatoes (preferably San Marzano)
- 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth
- 4 cups of stale bread, cubed
- 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
- A handful of fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to prepare the tomatoes?
First, blanch the tomatoes by making a small “X” incision on the bottom of each tomato. Place them in boiling water for about 30 seconds, and then transfer them to an ice bath. Peel off the skin, remove the seeds, and roughly chop the tomatoes.
How to make Pappa al Pomodoro?
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent.
2. Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.
4. Add the cubed bread to the pot and cook for another 10 minutes, or until the bread has soaked up all the liquid and becomes soft.
5. Stir in the fresh basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Remove the pot from the heat and let the soup rest for a few minutes.
7. Serve the Pappa al Pomodoro warm, drizzled with olive oil and garnished with additional fresh basil leaves.
Tips for serving Pappa al Pomodoro
– Pappa al Pomodoro is traditionally served warm or at room temperature. Allow it to cool slightly before serving.
– Drizzle some high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the soup just before serving. This adds a rich and fruity flavor to the dish.
– You can top the soup with some freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of decadence.
– Pappa al Pomodoro can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop before serving.
Final thoughts
Pappa al Pomodoro is a versatile and satisfying dish that celebrates the simplicity and flavors of Italian cuisine. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a wholesome and comforting meal that will transport you to the charming streets of Tuscany. So, why not give it a try in your own kitchen? Enjoy!