How to Make Italian Wedding Soup

Meatballs of ground beef and pork, and adds plenty of fresh herbs for the green element to a delicious soup.

While the name indicates that the soup might be served at an Italian wedding, it is actually a mistranslation of "minestra maritata," which refers to the "marriage" of greens and meat in the soup. Over the years there have been endless variations on this soup, but the main elements are meatballs and greens. This recipe, makes meatballs of ground beef and pork, and adds plenty of fresh herbs for the green element.

Things You'll Need

• Meatballs:
• 1 small onion, finely grated
• 1/3 cup chopped parsley
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 slice fresh white bread, crust removed and shredded
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
• 8 ounces ground chuck, round, or beef
• 8 ounces ground pork
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Soup:
• 12 cups chicken broth
• 1 pound endive, coarsely
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoon freshly grated Parmesan
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. The first step in making wedding Soup is to make the meatballs. Add the first six ingredients in a large bowl to blend. Add the Parmesan, beef and pork. Using a teaspoon and shape the meat mixture into 1-inch diameter meatballs. Cover and refrigerate until ready to cook.

2. Once the meatballs are ready its time to make the soup. Start by bringing the broth to a boil in a large pot over medium-high heat.

3. Add the meatballs and curly endive and simmer until the meatballs are cooked through and the endive is tender, about 8 minutes.

4. Whisk the eggs and cheese in a medium bowl to blend. Stir the soup in a circular motion.

5. Gradually drizzle the egg mixture into the broth qhile stirring gently with a fork to form thin stands of egg, about 1 minute.

6. Season the soup to taste with salt and pepper.

7. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve. Finish with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure to use the freshest herbs.

• Keep in mind that ground round will be the leanest choice of beef.

• Use your hand if they are clean to make the meatballs.

• Always use caution when operating a stove.

• Be careful not to over season.