Surprise Ingredient Soup for Extra Flavor

Ingredients

Estimated total cost: €7.69 · €1.28/serving

• 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oilEst. price €0.12–€0.25
• 3/4 cup of finely minced onionEst. price €0.15–€0.30
• 3/4 cup of finely minced peeled carrotEst. price €0.20–€0.40
• 3/4 cup of well-cleaned thinly sliced leeksEst. price €0.60–€1.20
• 1 teaspoon of finely minced garlic (crush with the flat side of a knife for optimal flavor release)Est. price €0.02–€0.05
• 1 1/2 teaspoons of exquisite kosher saltEst. price €0.03–€0.08
• 1/4 teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepperEst. price €0.01–€0.03
• 1/4 teaspoon of Aleppo pepper or red pepper flakesEst. price €0.02–€0.06
• 8 ounces of Italian fennel sausage (sweet or hot), casing removedEst. price €2.50–€4.50
• 2 tablespoons of medium-coarse cornmeal (polenta) (mix with a small amount of liquid to prevent clumping before adding to the dish)Est. price €0.04–€0.10

Steps

1. 1

   In a large saucepan, warm the oil over medium heat. Introduce the onion, carrot, leeks, garlic, salt, black pepper, and Aleppo pepper. Stir and sauté until the onion turns translucent, which should take around 8 to 10 minutes. Next, add the sausage to the pan. Using a wooden spoon, break the sausage into small pieces while cooking until it loses its pink coloration; this should take approximately 5 minutes.

2. 2

   After discarding the extra fat, reserve approximately 2 tablespoons in the skillet. Incorporate the cornmeal into the skillet and pour in the stock while stirring continuously. Allow it to come to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer with a lid on for 30 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally during this process.

3. 3

   Add the greens to the pot and continue cooking for an additional 15 minutes, or until they reach a tender texture.

Full steps, exact amounts, and Cook Mode are available after sign-in.

• Cultural note

  This soup draws inspiration from Italian cuisine with ingredients like Italian fennel sausage and parmigiano-reggiano cheese. The use of black pepper, red pepper flakes, and garlic adds layers of flavor commonly found in Mediterranean dishes.

• Seasonal note

  This soup is ideal for colder seasons like fall and winter when hearty soups are comforting and nourishing. Most of the vegetables like onions, carrots, leeks, and kale are typically in season during the cooler months.

• Health note

  This soup is a good source of protein, vitamins A, C, and K, and fiber. However, it is high in fat and sodium, so it should be enjoyed in moderation. The kale or chard leaves provide additional nutrients and antioxidants.