When we hear about Italian Wedding Soup, we imagine a hearty soup made with beautiful meatballs, lots of vegetables, and delicious broth. The soup is believed to have originated in Italy and has continued to be a favorite of many families in different parts of the world.
But did you know that what we commonly call Italian Wedding Soup is not its real name? That’s right! The soup’s true name is Minestra Maritata, which translates to “married soup” in English. This name is believed to have originated from Naples, a beautiful city in southern Italy.
History of Minestra Maritata
Minestra Maritata is a traditional Neapolitan soup that dates back to the 15th century. It is believed that the soup’s name was derived from the ingredients used to make it- meat and vegetables- which were said to be ‘married’ in the pot to create a delicious dish.
While Minestra Maritata has been known as Italian Wedding Soup for many years in America, it isn’t typically served at weddings in Italy. The soup is popular throughout the country and can be found on the menus of many restaurants in the Campania region.
How to Make Minestra Maritata
Now that you know the soup’s true name, you may be wondering how to make Minestra Maritata. Here’s a simple recipe that you can try:
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground pork or beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup cooked orzo pasta
- 1 bunch escarole, chopped
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, and seasonings. Mix well.
- Roll the mixture into small meatballs, approximately one inch in diameter.
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil on medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until the onion turns translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the chicken broth and meatballs to the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add the chopped escarole and orzo pasta and simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Conclusion
Italian Wedding Soup is an incredibly delicious and satisfying dish, and now you know its true name – Minestra Maritata. Whether you prefer to call it Italian Wedding Soup or Minestra Maritata, it’s a perfect dish for any occasion. Try out this recipe and enjoy an authentic taste of Italy right in your own home!
FAQ
What soup has the name wedding in it?
The soup dish commonly known as wedding soup is a traditional Italian soup that is popular in many parts of the world. The name “wedding soup” comes from the Italian phrase minestra maritata – or “married soup” – which is a reference to the way the flavors combine, like a happy marriage.
The original recipe for wedding soup varies from region to region and chef to chef. However, common ingredients include chicken broth, small pasta or rice, greens such as spinach or kale, meatballs made from ground beef or pork, and parmesan cheese.
Traditionally, wedding soup is made from a rich, long-cooked homemade chicken stock that is flavored with various herbs and spices. The meatballs are usually seasoned with garlic, onion, and parsley, and sometimes stuffed with breadcrumbs or grated cheese. The pasta or rice is added to the soup in the last stage of cooking, followed by the greens.
In some regions, wedding soup is served as part of a wedding feast, hence the name. However, it has come to be enjoyed as a comfort food in many households around the world. It is often served as a first course or starter dish, but it can also be served as a main course, especially if it is accompanied by crusty bread or a side salad.
Regardless of how it is enjoyed, wedding soup is a delicious and comforting dish that is sure to please even the most discerning of palates.
What is the Italian name for soup?
In Italian cuisine, soup is a popular dish that is enjoyed by many people. The Italian word for “soup” is “Zuppa”. This word encompasses many different types of soup that are made in Italy, each with their unique ingredients and flavors. Zuppa specifically refers to a type of soup for which the main ingredients are vegetables common to the country. The most popular type of Zuppa in Italy is Minestrone, which is a hearty vegetable soup made from a variety of seasonal vegetables and beans.
Other popular types of Zuppa in Italy include Ribollita, which is a Tuscan soup made from bread, beans, and vegetables, and Pappa al Pomodoro, which is a tomato and bread soup that hails from central Italy. Depending on the region and season, different ingredients are used in Italian soups. For example, in the coastal regions, seafood is a common ingredient in soups, while in the mountainous regions, meats and beans are featured.
Italian soups are often served as a first course or primi piatti as part of a traditional Italian meal. They are typically enjoyed with a piece of bread and can be made in large batches, making them perfect for feeding a large crowd. the Italian name for soup is “Zuppa”, which encompasses a variety of different soup types, each one delicious in its unique way.
Does zuppa mean soup in Italian?
Zuppa is the Italian word for soup. In Italian cuisine, soup is an important part of the menu. The word “zuppa” typically refers to a thick, rich soup or chowder that is made with a variety of ingredients, such as vegetables, meats, and pasta. Some of the most popular Italian soups include minestrone, pasta e fagioli, and ribollita.
Soup has a long history in Italian cuisine and has been a staple of the diet for many centuries. In traditional Italian culture, soup was often served as a first course in a meal, and was commonly made using locally sourced ingredients that were in season. Today, Italian soup recipes have evolved and become more sophisticated, incorporating a range of flavors and ingredients from different regions of Italy.
So, to answer the question, zuppa does indeed mean soup in Italian, and is an important part of Italian cuisine and culture. Whether you prefer a hearty minestrone or a rich and creamy chowder, there is no shortage of delicious and satisfying Italian soups to try.
