Sopa de boda italiana

Ingredientes

• 1/2 pound ground beef
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1/2 cup Italian style bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
• 3 stalks celery, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 8 cups chicken broth (plus more as needed)
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup dried acini de pepe pasta (or other small pasta, see note)
• 3 to 4 cups baby spinach (plus more if desired)
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated parmesan cheese for garnish
• Chopped Italian parsley for garnish

Preparación

1. 1

   Make the meatballs: In a medium bowl, combine all the meatball ingredients using your hands until evenly combined. Do not overmix. Shape into small 1-inch balls. Set aside.

2. 2

   Heat a few drizzles of oil on a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat (I use a 6-quart pot). In batches, sear the meatballs until lightly browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Do not overcrowd, otherwise the meatballs will steam and not brown. Meatballs won’t be fully cooked at this point. Transfer meatballs to a plate and set aside.

3. 3

   To the same pot, add about 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Saute the onions, carrots, and celery until softened, about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. Then, make some room in the center and add a drizzle of oil, the minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Saute for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

4. 4

   Stir in the chicken broth, water, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil. Return the seared meatballs to the pot, and add the acini di pepe pasta. Stir to combine.

5. 5

   Bring to a boil again, and then reduce to a simmer. Simmer, with the lid partially covered, for about 15-18 minutes or until pasta is tender and meatballs are thoroughly cooked.

6. 6

   Add spinach and simmer for another minute until softened. Season with more salt and pepper if needed.

7. 7

   Garnish with grated parmesan cheese and parsley. Serve with bread, if desired. Enjoy!