What is Ribollita?
Ribolita means “reboiled” in Italian. It is a classic Tuscan soup that uses the leftover bread and vegetables. It’s a delicious mix of onions, carrots, celery, kale, cannellini beans, and stale bread. Its definitely a filling and delicious soup that everybody will love.
What makes Ribollita special is how simple it is to make it and how it tastes even better when it’s reheated! It’s traditionally prepared in colder months, because it’s very warming and hearty. It’s a rustic, comforting soup that brings the flavors of the Tuscany right to your table.
Why I Love This Recipe?
I love this Ribollita recipe, because it’s extremely simple to make, and you can add whatever you have leftover in your kitchen. It’s this kind of soup that is made from leftovers, but when cooked it tastes delicious.
Ribollita soup – is also known as Italian bread soup is one of my go to recipes, when i don’t have any ideas for dinner during the weeknights, or when it’s cold outside and i am looking for something warm and cozy to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions for Ribollita
Cannellini Beans: These creamy white beans give the dish its hearty texture. No cannellini? Great Northern or Navy beans work just as well! If you are using canned beans You can drain the beans, or add the juices to the soup, wich will make it thicker,
Tuscan Kale: Adds an earthy, slightly bitter flavor that makes the soup feel more fresh and delicious. If you don’t have it, curly kale or Swiss chard are great substitutes.
Crusty Bread: Stale bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth. Don’t have day-old bread? Toast fresh slices for the same effect.
Parmesan Rind: Toss it in to add a rich, umami flavor. If you don’t have a rind, grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano works too.
Mirepoix (Onion, Carrot, Celery): This trio is the flavor foundation of the dish. It’s simple, but it brings everything together beautifully.
Tools You’ll Need
Large Pot or Dutch Oven
Wooden Spoon
Ladle
Microplane Grater
Step-by-Step Instructions for Ribollita
Sauté the mirepoix: Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 chopped onion, 2 diced carrots, and 2 diced celery stalks. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Add garlic and spice: Stir in 4 minced garlic cloves and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes, just until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Add tomatoes and beans: Stir in 1 can (14 oz) of crushed tomatoes and 2 cans (15 oz each) of cannellini beans, drained and rinsed. Cook for 2-3 minutes to let the flavors combine.
Add the broth: Pour in 6 cups of vegetable broth and add a Parmesan rind for extra depth of flavor. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer.
Add the greens: Stir in 1 bunch of chopped Tuscan kale and cook for 10-15 minutes until the greens are tender and wilted.
Add the bread: Tear 3 cups of stale crusty bread into bite-sized pieces and stir them into the soup. Let the bread soak up the broth for about 5 minutes, thickening the soup into a hearty texture.
Serve the Ribollita: Ladle the Ribollita into bowls and drizzle with olive oil or sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot for a comforting, rustic Italian meal.
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Ribolita soup, in a large pot.
Ribolita soup
Expert Tips for Perfect Ribollita
Use Stale Bread: Stale bread works best because it holds up in the broth and adds great texture. If you only have fresh bread, just toast it—it works like a charm!
Make It Ahead: Ribollita is one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day. Letting the flavors meld overnight makes it extra delicious.
Customize Your Greens: No Tuscan kale? No problem! Swiss chard or spinach are great swaps that work just as well.
Serving Suggestions
Ribollita is a complete meal but pairs well with crusty bread, or cheesy garlic bread and a drizzle of olive oil. For an Italian meal, serve with a glass of Chianti or another bold red wine.
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Make-Ahead and Storage
Make-Ahead: Ribollita is perfect for prepping ahead—it keeps in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep it in an airtight container.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh for 3 days.
Freezing: Got extras? Freeze it for up to 3 months, and reheat whenever you’re craving it!
