Cheese And Minestrone: A Match Made In Heaven

Minestrone soup is a classic Italian soup that is hearty, healthy, and perfect for lunch or dinner on a cold day. It usually includes vegetables, pasta, beans, and sometimes meat. The best cheeses to pair with minestrone soup are Parmesan, Pecorino, and vegan Parmesan for a vegan option.

Parmesan

When making minestrone soup, it is recommended to add a Parmesan cheese rind to the soup as it simmers. This adds a meaty, nutty, umami flavour and helps to thicken the broth. Once the soup is ready, the cheese rind can be removed. Grated Parmesan cheese can then be added as a garnish before serving.

Some recipes also suggest serving the soup with crusty bread and a side of sliced toasted sourdough bread for dunking. This can be a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Pecorino

When choosing Pecorino to pair with minestrone, consider the age of the cheese. Younger Pecorino has a milder flavour, while aged Pecorino has a stronger, more pungent taste. The texture of the cheese will also vary depending on its age, with younger cheeses being softer and older cheeses being harder and more crumbly.

In addition to its flavour and texture, Pecorino also has a high melting point, which means it can be added to the soup without becoming too oily or stringy. This makes it a great choice for those who want to add a cheesy flavour to their minestrone without making it too rich or heavy.

Overall, Pecorino is an excellent choice of cheese to pair with minestrone soup. Its salty, nutty flavour and creamy texture complement the other ingredients in the soup, while its high melting point makes it a versatile topping that can be added to suit individual taste preferences.

Mozzarella

Choosing the Right Mozzarella

Preparing the Mozzarella

Before adding mozzarella to your minestrone soup, it's essential to prepare it properly. Fresh mozzarella is usually sold in blocks or balls and needs to be sliced or shredded before adding to the soup. Cut the mozzarella into thin slices or shred it using a box grater or food processor for the best results.

Adding Mozzarella to Minestrone Soup

There are multiple ways to incorporate mozzarella into your minestrone soup:

• As a Garnish: Sprinkle shredded or grated mozzarella on top of each bowl of soup just before serving. This method adds a creamy texture and savoury flavour to the soup without altering the soup's basic recipe.
• Mixed Into the Soup: You can also mix mozzarella directly into the soup during the last few minutes of cooking. This method creates a creamier and cheesier soup. Add the mozzarella gradually, stirring continuously, until melted.
• Baked Mozzarella Topping: For a more indulgent option, sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top of the soup and place it under the grill or broiler for a few minutes until the cheese melts and turns golden. This method adds a crispy, browned cheese layer to your soup.

Amount of Mozzarella to Use

The amount of mozzarella you use will depend on your personal preference and the number of servings. As a general guideline, start with about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of shredded or grated mozzarella per serving. You can always add more or less to suit your taste.

Storage and Leftovers

If you have leftovers or want to prepare the soup in advance, it's essential to consider the storage. Minestrone soup with mozzarella can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. However, the cheese may solidify in the soup, so reheat it gently and stir well before serving. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup without the cheese, and then add the mozzarella when you reheat the soup.

Provolone

If you want to incorporate Provolone into your minestrone soup, try the following recipe for Zuppa Di Provolone (Provolone Cheese Soup). This soup is made by melting butter in a large pot and sautéing onion, garlic, and pancetta. Then, add cabbage and simmer until tender. Next, add chicken broth and season to taste. To serve, rub garlic on toasted Italian bread slices, place two slices in each bowl, and top with a slice of Provolone cheese. Finally, pour the hot broth over the cheese and serve immediately.

If you prefer to serve the Provolone on the side, try pairing it with a classic minestrone soup. Minestrone soup is a hearty Italian vegetable soup made with a tomato-based broth, seasonal vegetables, beans, and small pasta. To make a classic minestrone soup, start by sautéing onions, carrots, celery, and garlic in olive oil. Then, add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and your choice of beans and pasta. Season with herbs such as oregano, thyme, and bay leaves, and simmer until the pasta is cooked. Finally, serve the soup with crusty bread and top with grated Provolone cheese.

Whether melted into the soup or served on the side, Provolone is a delicious addition to minestrone soup that will enhance the flavour and creaminess of the dish.

Fontina

To use fontina cheese as a topping for minestrone soup, simply grate or shred the cheese and sprinkle it over the soup before serving. The amount of cheese added can be adjusted to taste, but it is important not to add too much, as it may overwhelm the other flavours in the soup. Fontina cheese can also be melted into the soup to create a creamy texture and a more cohesive dish.

Frequently asked questions