Delicious Acini di Pepe Soup Recipes to Warm Your Soul
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to comfort you on a chilly day. And if you’re looking for a unique and flavorful soup recipe, then acini di pepe soup is the way to go. This traditional Italian soup features tiny pasta pearls called acini di pepe, which add a delightful texture to the dish. In this article, we’ll share two mouthwatering acini di pepe soup recipes that are sure to become your new favorites!
Beef, Tomato, and Acini di Pepe Soup
If you’re a fan of classic beef and tomato soup, then you’ll absolutely love this recipe. The combination of tender beef, tangy tomatoes, and delicate acini di pepe pasta creates a symphony of flavors in every spoonful. Whether you choose to make it in your Instant Pot, slow cooker, or on the stove, this soup is guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds.
### Ingredients:
- 1 pound beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup acini di pepe pasta
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large pot or Instant Pot, heat some oil over medium heat.
- Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides.
- Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
- In the same pot, add the onion and garlic. Cook until softened.
- Return the beef to the pot and add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and Italian seasoning.
- If using a slow cooker, transfer the mixture to the slow cooker at this point.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- If using an Instant Pot, secure the lid and cook on high pressure for 20 minutes. Release the pressure naturally.
- In the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the acini di pepe pasta and let it cook until tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
How to Prepare Acini di Pepe Soup
Preparing acini di pepe soup is a breeze. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a hearty and satisfying meal in no time. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or as a starter, this soup is guaranteed to impress your family and friends.
First, gather all the ingredients you’ll need for the recipe. Make sure you have beef stew meat, onion, garlic, canned diced tomatoes, beef broth, acini di pepe pasta, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
To begin, heat some oil in a large pot or Instant Pot. Add the beef stew meat and cook it until it’s nicely browned on all sides. This will help seal in the juices and add extra flavor to the soup.
Once the beef is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook them until they become fragrant and translucent.
Next, return the beef to the pot and add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and dried Italian seasoning. Give everything a good stir to combine the flavors. If you’re using a slow cooker, transfer the mixture to the slow cooker at this point.
If you’re using an Instant Pot, secure the lid and cook the soup on high pressure for 20 minutes. Once cooked, release the pressure naturally. If you’re using a slow cooker, cook the soup on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
In the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the acini di pepe pasta to the pot and let it cook until it becomes tender. The tiny pasta pearls will absorb the flavors of the soup and add a delightful texture to each spoonful.
Finally, season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle it into bowls and serve it hot with some crusty bread on the side. Your family and friends will be amazed by the delicious flavors and comforting warmth of this incredible soup.
Different Serving Suggestions for Acini di Pepe Soup
Acini di pepe soup is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to make your soup experience even more delightful:
- Garnish the soup with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added richness.
- Top the soup with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, to add a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve the soup with a side of garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks for a complete meal.
- Pair the soup with a crisp green salad to balance out the flavors and textures.
- For a heartier version, add some cooked vegetables, such as carrots, celery, or peas, to the soup.
- If you prefer a creamier soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk just before serving.
No matter how you choose to serve this delectable soup, one thing is for sure – it will warm your soul and leave you craving more!
Nutrition Facts
While acini di pepe soup is undeniably delicious, it’s also important to be mindful of its nutritional content. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutrition facts for one serving of beef, tomato, and acini di pepe soup:
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 20g
These values may vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands you use. It’s always a good idea to double-check the nutrition facts and adjust the serving size accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Acini di pepe soup is a true culinary delight that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Whether you’re a fan of beef and tomato soup or you’re simply looking for a new soup recipe to try, these acini di pepe soup recipes are guaranteed to impress. So gather your ingredients, fire up your stove or Instant Pot, and get ready to enjoy the comforting flavors of this delicious Italian soup!