Looking for a warm, comforting meal? This Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe is perfect! It’s a simple, hearty soup packed with nourishing ingredients. People love it because it’s soothing, flavorful, and easy to make. The rich broth, tender vegetables, and tiny pasta create a cozy dish for any season. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just craving comfort food, this soup is a go-to. Plus, it’s made with halal-friendly ingredients, so everyone can enjoy it. Let’s dive into this delicious and healing bowl of goodness!
Benefits of This Recipe
1. Great for Boosting Immunity
This Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe is packed with vitamins and nutrients. The garlic and onions help fight colds naturally. The warm broth soothes the throat and keeps you hydrated.
2. Easy to Digest and Light on the Stomach
This soup is gentle on digestion. The tiny pasta and soft veggies make it easy to eat. It’s a great choice for kids, the elderly, and anyone recovering from illness.
3. Quick and Simple to Make
You only need a few ingredients to prepare this soup. Everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup easy. It’s perfect for busy days or when you need a meal fast.
4. Warm and Comforting
The rich, flavorful broth makes this soup extra cozy. It’s great for cold weather or when you need something soothing. The classic flavors remind you of homemade meals from childhood.
5. Halal-Friendly and Customizable
This version uses halal-certified Parmesan and broth. You can also make it vegetarian by swapping out the chicken broth. Add extra veggies or spices to suit your taste.
Read more : Easy Rice and Beans Burritos Recipe – A Health & Friendly Meal
Cautions of Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe
- Watch the salt – If using store-bought broth, choose a low-sodium option.
- Pasta absorbs liquid – The pastina will soak up broth as it sits, so add more when reheating.
- Remove the bay leaves – They add flavor but are not meant to be eaten.
- Check Parmesan ingredients – Make sure it’s halal-certified if following a strict halal diet.
- Don’t overcook the pasta – It can become mushy if left in the soup too long.
Read more : French Onion Soup Recipe – Classic&Rich with Caramelize Onions
Fun Tidbits of Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe
- “Italian Penicillin” is a nickname – Italians believe this soup has healing powers, just like medicine!
- Italians love using pastina – Tiny pasta is a childhood favorite in Italian homes. Many people eat it when sick.
- A traditional family remedy – Many Italian grandmothers swear by this soup for fighting colds.
- No need for fancy ingredients – This Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe uses simple, everyday pantry staples.
- Tastes even better the next day – The flavors blend overnight, making leftove
Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe – A Healing & Comforting Halal Soup
Description
This Halal Italian Penicillin Soup is a nourishing, soul-warming dish inspired by traditional Italian pastina soup. Made with halal-certified Parmesan, fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and tiny pasta, this dish delivers rich flavor and healing warmth. Ideal for soothing a cold or simply enjoying a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
Pasta & Cheese
Seasonings & Garnish
Instructions
1. Preparing the Ingredients
-
Wash, peel, and chop the onions, carrots, and celery into small, uniform pieces for even cooking.
-
Smash and peel garlic cloves to release their flavor.
-
Prepare the halal chicken broth, ensuring it is warmed slightly before use.
2. Building the Flavorful Soup Base
-
Place a large soup pot over medium heat.
-
Pour in the halal chicken broth and let it warm for 2 minutes before adding the other ingredients.
-
Add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, and garlic into the pot. Stir well to combine.
-
Sprinkle in kosher salt, then add thyme sprigs and bay leaves for an aromatic base.
3. Simmering to Develop the Broth
-
Bring the soup to a gentle simmer (small bubbles should form, but not a rolling boil).
-
Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
-
Check that the vegetables are tender but not mushy by piercing them with a fork.
4. Blending for a Creamy Texture (Optional Step)
-
Remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaves from the pot to prevent overpowering flavors.
-
Using an immersion blender, carefully blend about ⅓ of the soup directly in the pot.
-
Leave some vegetable chunks for texture while making the broth slightly creamy.
-
If using a stand blender, allow the soup to cool slightly before blending, then return it to the pot.
5. Cooking the Pasta & Infusing Parmesan Flavor
-
Bring the soup back to a gentle boil over medium heat.
-
Stir in the pastina (tiny pasta) and ensure it is fully submerged.
-
Add the halal Parmesan rind to the pot for depth of flavor.
-
Cook the pasta for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Adjusting Seasoning for the Perfect Taste
-
Remove the Parmesan rind from the soup and discard.
-
Taste the soup and adjust with more salt and freshly ground black pepper if needed.
-
If a richer texture is desired, add a splash of warm halal chicken broth and stir well.
7. Final Garnishing and Serving
-
Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls.
-
Sprinkle each bowl with freshly chopped parsley for freshness.
-
Add a generous amount of halal-certified grated Parmesan cheese on top.
-
Serve immediately with warm bread or crackers on the side.
8. Storage and Reheating Tips
-
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
-
Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a little water or broth to adjust consistency.
-
Avoid overcooking while reheating to prevent the pasta from becoming too soft.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 220kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 8g13%
- Saturated Fat 3g15%
- Cholesterol 10mg4%
- Total Carbohydrate 28g10%
- Dietary Fiber 4g16%
- Sugars 5g
- Protein 10g20%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Why This Soup is Called "Italian Penicillin"
This soup is often referred to as "Italian Penicillin" because it is a comforting, healing dish commonly made when someone is feeling under the weather. Just like chicken soup in many cultures, it is believed to help boost immunity, soothe sore throats, and provide warmth and nourishment.
How Does It Help When You're Sick?
- Warm broth helps hydrate the body and soothe the throat.
- Garlic and onions contain natural antibacterial and antiviral properties.
- Carrots and celery are packed with vitamins to support the immune system.
- Pastina (tiny pasta) makes it easy to digest and comforting.
- Parmesan rind (halal-certified) adds depth of flavor and extra nutrients.
Key Features of This Recipe
- Halal-friendly adaptation – Traditional Parmesan cheese is replaced with halal-certified Parmesan or a plant-based alternative.
- Rich and creamy texture – A portion of the soup is blended for a thicker consistency.
- Mild and comforting – Perfect for both adults and children, especially when feeling unwell.
- One-pot recipe – Easy to prepare and requires minimal cleanup.
Ingredient Breakdown and Their Role
Halal Chicken Broth
The base of the soup, providing a rich, savory flavor. Always choose a halal-certified broth or make your own by simmering halal chicken with aromatics.
Vegetables: Onions, Carrots, Celery, and Garlic
- These create a classic Italian soffritto that enhances the soup’s flavor.
- Garlic is a natural immune booster, making this soup perfect for when you're feeling sick.
- Carrots and celery provide sweetness, texture, and essential vitamins.
Thyme and Bay Leaves
- Thyme adds a mild earthy taste and contains antibacterial properties.
- Bay leaves enhance the soup's aroma but should be removed before serving.
Pastina (Tiny Pasta)
- Traditional choice for Italian comfort soups.
- Small size makes it easy to eat and digest, especially for children and those feeling unwell.
- Can be substituted with orzo or acini de pepe if needed.
Halal Parmesan Rind
- A Parmesan rind adds depth and umami flavor to the soup.
- Make sure to use a halal-certified or vegetarian alternative to avoid animal rennet.
Seasonings: Salt, Black Pepper, and Fresh Parsley
- Salt and black pepper balance the flavors and enhance the natural taste of the ingredients.
- Fresh parsley brightens up the dish and adds a touch of freshness.
Cooking Techniques Used in This Recipe
Simmering for Maximum Flavor
- Cooking at a low simmer allows the ingredients to slowly release their flavors into the broth.
- Avoid boiling too aggressively, as this can break down the vegetables too quickly.
Blending for a Creamier Texture
- Blending part of the soup gives it a thicker consistency without needing cream.
- Use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer a portion to a stand blender.
Cooking Pasta Directly in the Broth
- The pastina absorbs the flavors of the broth, making it more delicious.
- Be careful not to overcook, as tiny pasta can become mushy if left too long.
Variations & Customizations
Make it Vegetarian
- Swap out halal chicken broth for vegetable broth.
- Add more vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Add More Protein
- Stir in shredded halal chicken for a heartier version.
- Add a soft-boiled egg or tofu for additional protein.
Spice it Up
- If you like some heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Refrigeration
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- The pasta may absorb some liquid, so you might need to add a little broth when reheating.
Freezing
- If planning to freeze, do not add the pasta before freezing, as it will become mushy.
- Freeze the broth and vegetable mixture in portions, then cook fresh pastina when reheating.
Reheating
- Warm the soup over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.
- Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, to avoid overheating.
Best Occasions to Enjoy This Soup
✔️ When you're feeling sick or under the weather
✔️ During cold winter months for warmth and comfort
✔️ As a starter before an Italian meal
✔️ For kids and elderly who prefer mild, easy-to-digest meals
