Description
A comforting and nourishing Italian soup known as Pastina Soup with Egg, often called Italian Penicillin. This simple yet flavorful soup features tender pastina pasta cooked in a seasoned vegetable stock, enriched with a silky egg and Parmesan mixture for added creaminess and protein. Perfect for a quick, cozy meal that soothes the soul.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, crushed
- 2 carrots, diced into small pieces
- 2 sticks celery, diced into small pieces
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken stock
- 1/4 tsp turmeric (optional)
Pasta
- 1 cup pastina
Egg Mixture
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup Parmesan, finely shredded
Garnish
- Parsley, finely chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened to develop a flavorful base.
- Add Garlic and Veggies: Stir in the crushed garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté for another 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften, releasing their aromas.
- Simmer Stock and Pasta: Pour in the stock and bring it to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Add the optional turmeric and the pastina pasta. Cook according to package directions, about 5–7 minutes, until the pasta is tender.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: While the pastina cooks, whisk together the eggs and finely shredded Parmesan cheese in a bowl until smooth and combined.
- Temper Egg Mixture: Once the pastina is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Slowly pour and stir the egg and cheese mixture into the soup to gently thicken and enrich the broth without curdling the eggs.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the soup immediately, garnished with finely chopped parsley if desired for a fresh finish.
Notes
- Use vegetable or chicken stock for a richer flavor.
- The turmeric is optional but adds a warm color and subtle earthiness.
- Pastina is a tiny star- or round-shaped pasta which cooks quickly and is ideal for soups.
- Stir the egg mixture slowly into the hot soup to prevent scrambling and achieve a creamy texture.
- For a vegetarian option, use vegetable stock and ensure Parmesan is vegetarian-friendly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
