When it comes to comfort food, few dishes are as hearty, heartwarming, and flavorful as a classic marriage soup. Known for its blend of savory meatballs, tender vegetables, and a rich broth, marriage soup has long been a staple in many kitchens, especially those of Italian-American descent. It’s a dish that brings people together around the table, making it the perfect family meal or a special occasion dish. What’s even more appealing about marriage soup is its versatility – it’s a crowd-pleaser for all ages and can be adjusted to fit various dietary needs or preferences.
In this detailed guide, we’ll walk through an authentic marriage soup recipe, break down the ingredients you’ll need, dive into the cooking process step by step, and share some expert tips to make your version of the dish absolutely mouthwatering. Plus, we’ll explore different variations so you can tailor this recipe to your liking. So, let’s get cooking!
Marriage Soup Recipe
This marriage soup recipe is a true delight. It brings together tender meatballs, pasta, vegetables, and a rich, savory broth that’s simmered to perfection. While the recipe can vary by region or family tradition, the core ingredients and preparation methods are the same. The magic lies in how the ingredients come together to create a delicious, cohesive dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
Ingredients Needed
Let’s break down the main components of a good marriage soup. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in adding flavor and texture to the dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
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Meatballs
- Ground beef or ground turkey (or a mix of both)
- Fresh breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Garlic (minced)
- Fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil (for browning the meatballs)
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Vegetables
- Onion (chopped)
- Carrots (sliced)
- Celery (chopped)
- Zucchini (optional, chopped)
- Fresh spinach or escarole (for that leafy green component)
- Canned tomatoes (diced, optional for a touch of acidity)
- Garlic (minced)
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Broth And Liquid
- Chicken or beef broth (or a mix of both)
- Water (to balance the richness of the broth)
- Bay leaves (for added flavor)
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Pasta
- Small pasta shapes like ditalini, orzo, or acini di pepe (small and hearty)
Cooking Instructions
Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s dive into the cooking process. Trust me, it’s easier than you might think and absolutely worth the effort. Follow these steps for a perfect marriage soup:
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Make The Meatballs
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or turkey), breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, garlic, fresh parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Gently mix the ingredients until everything is well combined. Be careful not to overwork the mixture to keep the meatballs tender.
- Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1-inch in diameter.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Brown the meatballs in batches, ensuring they get a nice golden exterior. Don’t worry about cooking them all the way through – they’ll finish cooking in the broth.
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Prepare The Broth
- Once the meatballs are browned, remove them from the pot and set them aside.
- In the same pot, add a bit more olive oil and sauté the onion, carrots, and celery over medium heat until they begin to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken or beef broth, followed by the water, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the bay leaves for added depth of flavor.
- Return the meatballs to the pot and let everything simmer gently for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Add The Pasta
- Once the meatballs are cooked through, add the small pasta of your choice to the soup and continue simmering until the pasta is al dente, usually 8-10 minutes.
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Add The Greens
- About 5 minutes before serving, stir in the fresh spinach or escarole. These greens will wilt beautifully in the broth and add a fresh, vibrant element to the soup.
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Final Adjustments
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. For an added touch of brightness, squeeze in a little lemon juice or drizzle in a touch of olive oil before serving.
Ingredient Insights
Let’s take a moment to highlight a few key ingredients that really elevate marriage soup:
- Meatballs: The key to the meatballs is in the seasoning and texture. Fresh breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese provide moisture and flavor, while the addition of garlic and parsley enhances the savory depth. Using a mix of ground beef and turkey helps balance richness with lean protein.
- Broth: The base of your soup is the broth, which will carry most of the flavor. Opt for high-quality chicken or beef broth for the best taste. If you have the time, making your own broth will add an even deeper flavor profile.
- Spinach or Escarole: These leafy greens add a pop of color and freshness. Escarole is a traditional choice, but spinach works just as well. Both are packed with vitamins and add a nice contrast to the savory meatballs and pasta.
- Pasta: The small, hearty pasta shapes are key for soaking up the rich broth and keeping the soup satisfying. They also make the soup feel more substantial, turning it into a one-bowl meal.
Expert Tips
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: When browning the meatballs, do it in batches. Crowding the pot will cause them to steam instead of brown, leading to a less flavorful result.
- Use a Wide, Shallow Pot: This allows for better browning of the meatballs and easier access when you’re stirring in the broth and vegetables.
- Customize the Greens: If spinach or escarole isn’t your thing, you can substitute other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard. Just make sure to chop them up into bite-sized pieces.
- Make it Ahead: Marriage soup actually gets better the next day as the flavors meld together. If you’re making it ahead, wait to add the pasta and greens until you reheat the soup to prevent them from getting too soggy.
Recipe Variations
One of the best things about marriage soup is how adaptable it is to personal tastes. Here are a few variations to try:
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the meatballs altogether or substitute them with plant-based options like lentils or tofu. You can also add more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or butternut squash to keep it hearty and satisfying.
- Add Beans: For a more filling soup, try adding a can of cannellini beans or chickpeas. They’ll soak up the flavors of the broth and add an extra layer of protein.
- Spicy Marriage Soup: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced fresh chili pepper to the broth for a spicy kick. You could also try spicing up the meatballs by adding some crushed red pepper.
- Different Pasta Shapes: While small pasta shapes are traditional, you can try different varieties like broken lasagna noodles or even fresh ravioli for a twist.
Final Words
Marriage soup isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience. The comfort of tender meatballs, flavorful broth, and al dente pasta is unmatched, and the fact that it brings people together in the kitchen and at the table makes it even more special. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or just because you crave something hearty and delicious, this recipe won’t disappoint.
FAQs
What Is Marriage Soup?
Marriage soup is a hearty and flavorful Italian-American dish that is traditionally made with a combination of meatballs, sausage, and greens, such as escarole or spinach, all simmered in a savory broth. It is often served with small pasta and is known for being a comforting, filling meal.
What Kind Of Meat Is Typically Used In Marriage Soup?
The soup usually features a blend of meats, including ground beef, pork, or turkey for the meatballs, and Italian sausage (either sweet or spicy). These meats create a rich, flavorful base for the broth.
Can I Use Other Greens Besides Escarole In Marriage Soup?
Yes, while escarole is the most traditional green used in marriage soup, you can substitute it with other leafy greens like spinach, kale, or swiss chard. Each green will contribute a slightly different flavor, but they all work well in this type of soup.
What Type Of Pasta Is Best For Marriage Soup?
Small pasta shapes like orzo, ditalini, or small shells are ideal for marriage soup. These pasta shapes absorb the broth and hold up well during cooking, adding texture without overpowering the other ingredients.
Is Marriage Soup A Good Make-ahead Meal?
Yes, marriage soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld together. You can make it ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze the soup, but be aware that pasta may absorb some of the broth, so you may need to add more liquid when reheating.
Can I Make Marriage Soup In A Slow Cooker?
Yes, marriage soup can be made in a slow cooker. Brown the meatballs and sausage first, then add them to the slow cooker along with the broth, vegetables, and pasta. Let the soup cook on low for 4-6 hours, and add the greens during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
How Do I Make Marriage Soup Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of marriage soup, substitute the meatballs and sausage with plant-based protein options, such as lentils, mushrooms, or meatless meatballs. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth for a fully vegetarian dish.
What Should I Serve With Marriage Soup?
Marriage soup is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or garlic bread to dip in the flavorful broth. A side salad with a light vinaigrette can also complement the richness of the soup.
Can I Freeze Marriage Soup?
Yes, marriage soup can be frozen. If you’re planning to freeze it, it’s best to do so without the pasta, as pasta can become mushy when frozen and reheated. Store the soup in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, add freshly cooked pasta.
What Makes Marriage Soup So Special?
Marriage soup is special because of its comforting and hearty nature. The combination of flavorful meatballs, sausage, greens, and broth creates a deeply satisfying dish. It’s often seen as a dish that brings families together, and its name reflects the ’marriage’ of different ingredients to create a harmonious meal.