How to Make a Traditional Italian Tomato and Bread Soup

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that embodies the essence of Italian cuisine, look no further than traditional Italian tomato and bread soup, also known as “Pappa al Pomodoro.” This rustic soup showcases ripe tomatoes and stale bread, creating a deliciously thick and hearty meal. Follow this simple guide to make your very own bowl of warmth and flavor.

Ingredients

To prepare this classic Italian dish, you will need the following ingredients:

2 cups of ripe tomatoes (or a 400g can of whole peeled tomatoes)
4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth
2 cups of stale Italian bread, cut into cubes
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon of fresh basil, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil)
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes

If using fresh tomatoes, blanch them in boiling water for about 30 seconds, then transfer them to ice water. Peel the skins, remove the seeds, and chop into small pieces. If using canned tomatoes, simply crush them by hand or with a fork.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Step 3: Cook the Tomatoes

Once the onions and garlic are aromatic, add the chopped tomatoes (or canned tomatoes) to the pot. Stir in the basil and season with salt and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the tomatoes to break down.

Step 4: Add the Broth

Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring the soup to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for an additional 15 minutes. This simmering process intensifies the flavors.

Step 5: Incorporate the Bread

Stir in the stale bread cubes, ensuring they soak up the broth. Allow the soup to simmer for another 10-15 minutes. The bread will break down and thicken the soup significantly.

Step 6: Blend (Optional)

If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup. This step is optional, as many enjoy the rustic consistency of the bread with chunks of tomatoes throughout.

Step 7: Serve

Once the soup has thickened to your liking, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, drizzled with a little more extra virgin olive oil and sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread for an authentic Italian experience.

Tips for the Best Pappa al Pomodoro

Use quality ingredients—fresh, ripe tomatoes elevate the dish significantly.
Stale bread is key. The denser the bread, the better it will hold up in the soup.
Let leftovers rest in the fridge—the flavors deepen and the soup thickens even more.

Enjoy your homemade traditional Italian tomato and bread soup, a perfect way to celebrate the simplicity and depth of Italian cooking!