Introduction
Tuscan Ribollita Soup is a classic Italian dish that warms the heart and fills the stomach. Its name, ribollita, means “reboiled,” which refers to the way this soup is traditionally made by reheating leftover vegetable and bread stew. This hearty soup is full of flavors, textures, and healthy ingredients like beans, kale, carrots, and rustic bread.
If you love simple, wholesome meals that are easy to make and perfect for any season, this Tuscan soup is a must-try. In this recipe, I’ll show you step-by-step how to make this flavorful soup in your own kitchen using simple ingredients. By the end, you’ll have a bowl of Tuscan goodness ready to enjoy!
Ingredients – Tuscan Ribollita Soup
Here’s what you need to make one big pot of Tuscan Ribollita Soup:
Vegetables & Beans:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 small bunch of kale or cavolo nero, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
Bread & Herbs:
- 2 cups stale or day-old rustic bread, cubed
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Extra olive oil for drizzling
- Grated Parmesan cheese (skip for vegan version)
Step by Step Process – Tuscan Ribollita Soup
Making Tuscan Ribollita Soup is easier than it sounds. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by washing and chopping all your vegetables. Chop the onion, carrots, celery, zucchini, and kale into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic cloves.
Step 2: Sauté the Base
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant. Add the garlic and sauté for another minute.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Herbs
Stir in the diced tomatoes, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Let it cook for 2–3 minutes to release the flavors.
Step 4: Add Broth and Beans
Pour in the vegetable broth and add the cannellini beans. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes.
Step 5: Add Kale and Bread
Stir in the chopped kale and cubed bread. The bread will soak up the soup and make it thick and hearty. Simmer for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 6: Season to Taste
Add salt and pepper according to your taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls. Drizzle with extra olive oil and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm with a slice of crusty bread on the side for a complete Tuscan experience.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 40 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 12 g |
| Sugars | 6 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1 g |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
| Vitamin A | 80% DV |
| Vitamin C | 50% DV |
| Calcium | 10% DV |
| Iron | 15% DV |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make Tuscan Ribollita Soup ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, the flavors improve if you let the soup sit for a few hours or overnight. Just reheat before serving.
Q2: Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! You can add spinach, bell peppers, or even potatoes. Ribollita is very flexible.
Q3: Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes. Simply skip the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative.
Q4: Do I have to use stale bread?
Traditional ribollita uses stale bread, but fresh bread works too. Just reduce the amount slightly, as fresh bread will soak up more liquid.
Q5: Can I freeze Tuscan Ribollita Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Final Thoughts
Tuscan Ribollita Soup is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting tradition that brings warmth and wholesome flavors to your table. With its simple ingredients, easy steps, and flexible nature, this soup is perfect for busy weekdays or cozy weekends.
Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced chef, this recipe is straightforward, delicious, and healthy. Give it a try, and you might just discover your new favorite Italian comfort food! Enjoy the hearty taste of Tuscany, one spoonful at a time.
