Pappa al pomodoro

Pappa al pomodoro

Pappa al pomodoro is a traditional Italian dish that originates from the region of Tuscany. It is a thick, hearty soup made primarily from ripe tomatoes, stale bread, olive oil, garlic, and various fresh herbs. The dish is a perfect example of the Italian culinary principle of not wasting any food, as it makes use of bread that would otherwise be thrown away.

Ingredients

The main ingredients of pappa al pomodoro are:

• Tomatoes: The base of the soup is made from ripe tomatoes. They can be fresh or canned, but they should be of high quality for the best flavor.
• Bread: Stale bread is a key ingredient in this dish. It is soaked in the tomato mixture and then mashed to create a thick, hearty texture.
• Olive oil: Olive oil is used for sautéing the garlic and for drizzling on top of the finished dish.
• Garlic: Garlic is sautéed in olive oil to start the soup, providing a flavorful base.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil and parsley are used to add flavor and color to the dish.

Preparation

The preparation of pappa al pomodoro involves several steps:

1. The garlic is sautéed in olive oil until it is fragrant. 2. The tomatoes are then added to the pot and cooked until they break down and form a sauce. 3. The stale bread is soaked in the tomato sauce and then mashed until it forms a thick soup. 4. The soup is then seasoned with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. 5. The finished dish is typically served with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top.

Variations

There are many variations of pappa al pomodoro, depending on the region of Italy and personal preference. Some versions may include other vegetables, like onions or carrots, while others may include meat, like pancetta or sausage. Some people prefer to puree the soup until it is smooth, while others prefer to leave it chunky.

Serving

Pappa al pomodoro is typically served as a starter or a light meal. It can be served hot or cold, depending on the season and personal preference. It is often accompanied by a glass of Tuscan red wine.

See Also

• Italian cuisine
• Tuscan cuisine
• List of Italian soups
• List of tomato dishes

References

• The Silver Spoon, Phaidon Press
• Cucina Italiana, La Cucina Italiana Magazine
• The Art of Italian Cooking, Maria Lo Pinto

External Links

• Pappa al Pomodoro Recipe from Food Network
• Pappa al Pomodoro Recipe from BBC Food
• Pappa al Pomodoro Recipe from Epicurious

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