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Recipe of Acquacotta

Vida Recetas Editorial

The soup Acquacotta, whose name literally means "cooked water", is one of the most emblematic dishes of Tuscan cuisine and a clear example of the region's peasant culinary tradition. Originating in the Maremma area, this recipe was born as a humble dish that made use of basic ingredients available in rural pantries: stale bread, seasonal vegetables, and eggs. Despite its simple origins, Acquacotta is a surprisingly comforting and flavorful soup, perfect for those seeking a hearty and nutritious meal without complications.

The modern version presented here includes tomatoes, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, and eggs poached directly in the broth, giving it a creamy texture and an extra protein boost. It is traditionally served over slices of stale bread, which absorb the broth and become a substantial base. Finally, it is topped with Pecorino Romano cheese and fresh basil, adding a savory and aromatic touch.

This soup is ideal for cold days, as a main course accompanied by a salad, or as a hearty starter. Variations exist that incorporate other vegetables such as celery, carrots, or even wild herbs, adapting to what the season offers. The key is to use quality ingredients and good rustic bread.

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Recipe of Acquacotta
Image generated with AI

Prep

30 min

Servings

4

Ingredients

Directions

  1. 1

    In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until they become soft and translucent.

  2. 2

    Pour in the diced tomatoes and their juices, and simmer for about 10 minutes until the mixture thickens.

  3. 3

    Add the vegetable broth to the pot and season with salt and black pepper. Bring the soup to a gentle boil.

  4. 4

    Carefully crack each egg into the simmering broth, one at a time. Allow them to poach until the whites are set, but the yolks remain runny, about 4-5 minutes.

  5. 5

    Place a slice of stale bread at the bottom of each serving bowl.

  6. 6

    Carefully ladle the soup over the bread, making sure to distribute the eggs evenly.

  7. 7

    Sprinkle Pecorino Romano cheese on top of each bowl, and garnish with fresh basil leaves.

  8. 8

    Serve your Acquacotta hot and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this traditional Tuscan dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is it to prepare Acquacotta?

This recipe has a medium difficulty level, which means it's accessible for cooks of all levels.

How long does it take to prepare Acquacotta?

The preparation time is 30 minutes and the cooking time is minutes.

How many people does this recipe serve?

This recipe is designed for 4 servings.

Can I substitute some ingredients?

Yes, many ingredients can be substituted with similar alternatives. We recommend checking the recipe variations.

How should I store this preparation?

Store the preparation in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Some preparations can be frozen for up to 3 months.

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