Description
Zuppa Toscana is a soul-warming, nutritious soup featuring smoky turkey bacon, creamy russet potatoes, and fresh kale in a comforting, velvety plant-based cream broth. Easy to prepare and versatile, this hearty soup delivers rich flavor and satisfying texture perfect for any season or occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins and Aromatics
- 6 oz smoked turkey bacon, chopped
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Vegetables and Greens
- 4 cups peeled and cubed russet potatoes
- 4 cups chopped fresh kale, tough stems removed
Liquids and Flavorings
- 6 cups vegetable broth (gluten-free, natural)
- 2 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 cup plant-based cream
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Bacon and Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped smoked turkey bacon and cook until crisp and golden. Add diced onions and sauté until translucent and fragrant. Stir in minced garlic and cook briefly, ensuring not to burn.
- Cook the Potatoes: Add peeled, cubed russet potatoes to the pot along with the vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes soften, about 15-20 minutes.
- Add Flavors and Greens: Stir in vegetarian Worcestershire sauce and red pepper flakes if using. Add chopped kale once potatoes are tender. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until kale wilts and softens.
- Finish with Creaminess: Lower heat and stir in plant-based cream to create a rich, velvety texture. Heat through gently without boiling. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Notes
- Use fresh, tender kale for best flavor and texture.
- Sauté bacon and onions slowly to enhance sweetness and smoky notes.
- Simmer gently after adding cream to maintain smooth richness.
- Chop potatoes into uniform cubes for even cooking and texture.
- Taste frequently and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: Zuppa Toscana, turkey bacon soup, kale soup, plant-based cream soup, gluten free soup, comforting soup
