On those nights when the world feels a bit too chilly, and you’re yearning for something warm and soul-soothing, this Cozy Spinach Tortellini En Brodo is like a hug in a bowl. Picture yourself wrapped in a favorite blanket while the aroma of simmering broth fills the air—ah, bliss! It’s more than just a meal; it’s a gentle nod to the comforting traditions of home cooking, with a sprinkle of modern flair that even your grandmother would approve of, perhaps with a raised eyebrow.
Steps
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Once melted, add chopped celery, onion, carrot, and minced garlic.
- Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and cook the vegetables for about 8-10 minutes until they start to soften.
- Pour in the chicken broth and water, then add the Parmesan cheese rind. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, season the broth with salt, pepper, and nutmeg, stirring to blend the flavors.
- Lower the heat and add the tortellini. Let it simmer until the tortellini is cooked to al dente as per the package instructions.
- After the tortellini is done, remove the cheese rind and mix in the baby spinach. Stir well and serve with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons butter
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth (or substitute with vegetable broth)
- 3 cups water
- 1 small Parmesan cheese rind (optional)
- 18 ounces spinach cheese tortellini
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 cups baby spinach
- Salt, to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1824 kcal | Carbohydrates: 264 g | Protein: 92 g | Fat: 44 g | Saturated Fat: 20 g | Cholesterol: 260 mg | Sodium: 7324 mg | Fiber: 20 g | Sugar: 28 g
FAQ
- What is Tortellini en Brodo?
- Tortellini en Brodo is an Italian dish that translates to tortellini served in broth. It’s a comforting soup made with tortellini, typically filled with cheese or meat, cooked in a light and flavorful broth.
- Can I use a vegetarian broth for this soup?
- Yes, you can substitute the chicken broth with a vegetable broth to make the soup vegetarian-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
- What is the purpose of using a Parmesan cheese rind in the soup?
- Adding a Parmesan cheese rind to the soup enhances its flavor. As the soup simmers, the rind softens and infuses the broth with a rich, cheesy taste. Be sure to remove the rind before serving.
- What other vegetables can I add to the Spinach Tortellini Soup?
- Besides the suggested celery, onion, and carrot, you can include other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or kale to add more variety and nutrition to the soup.
- How should I store leftovers, and how long will they keep?
- Leftover Spinach Tortellini Soup should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Tips
- Save the rinds of Parmesan or Romano cheese in the freezer to add depth to your broth. As the soup simmers, these rinds infuse the liquid with a rich cheese flavor, enhancing the overall taste. Remember to remove the rind before serving.
- Use a gentle heat to cook the vegetables initially to ensure they soften without browning. This will help maintain the delicate flavors of the soup.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth without compromising on flavor.
- Allow the tortellini to cook only until al dente by following the package instructions. This will prevent the pasta from becoming too soft when you reheat leftovers.
Equipment
- Large Pot or Stockpot: Essential for cooking the soup, especially if you don’t already have a large enough pot.
- Cheese Grater: If you don’t have one, a grater is needed for grating the Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.
- Ladle: Useful for serving the soup, especially if you don’t already own one.
