Italian wedding soup, with its mix of meat, vegetables, and pasta, is a hearty and comforting dish that is popular in many Italian-American communities. However, this soup is not actually an authentic Italian dish. So what is this soup that is so beloved in America actually called in Italy?
The Origins of Italian Wedding Soup
Italian wedding soup originated among Italian immigrants in America who were attempting to recreate traditional Italian dishes. The name “Italian wedding soup” likely comes from the tradition of serving this soup at Italian weddings in America. However, this soup did not originate in Italy and is not traditionally served at Italian weddings.
The soup was likely inspired by two different Italian dishes – a meat and vegetable soup and a soup with small pasta shapes like acini de pepe. Combining these elements created a hearty and comforting soup that Italian immigrants could make with ingredients available in America.
While there are some similar soups in Italy, there is no direct equivalent to Italian wedding soup found in traditional Italian cuisine. The name “Italian wedding soup” is uniquely Italian-American.
Soups Commonly Served at Italian Weddings
If Italian wedding soup did not originate in Italy, what soups are actually served at Italian weddings there? Here are some of the most popular options:
- Minestrone – This thick, vegetable-heavy soup is a staple in Italian cuisine. Traditional recipes can include beans, pasta, tomatoes, onions, carrots, and a variety of other vegetables.
- Stracciatella – An egg drop soup made with eggs, parmesan cheese, and spinach or other greens. Stracciatella means “little rags” in Italian, referring to the egg strips.
- Pasta e fagioli – A hearty soup with pasta and beans. Typically uses borlotti or cannellini beans and small pasta shapes like ditalini.
- Ribollita – A Tuscan soup traditionally made by reboiling leftover minestrone. Includes bread, vegetables, and beans.
These soups make frequent appearances at Italian wedding feasts along with other classic Italian dishes like risotto, seafood, roasted meats, and regional specialties.
Acini de Pepe: The Pasta Used in Italian Wedding Soup
While Italian wedding soup does not originate from Italy, it does contain some authentic Italian ingredients. One is acini de pepe, the tiny pasta spheres used in the soup.
Acini de pepe are a staple pasta shape in Italian cuisine. Their name translates to “peppercorns” in Italian, a reference to their small, bead-like appearance. The pasta is typically made from just semolina flour and water.
Acini de pepe and other very small pasta shapes are common additions to Italian soups. The small size allows the pasta to cook quickly and absorb the surrounding broth. Beyond wedding soup, acini de pepe can be found in dishes like:
- Stracciatella
- Minestrone
- Ciambotta (a vegetable stew)
- Pasta e ceci (pasta and chickpea soup)
So while Italian wedding soup itself is not authentically Italian, the acini de pepe pasta in it certainly is!
The Flavor Profile of Italian Wedding Soup
Italian wedding soup likely became popular because its flavor profile resonates with American tastes. It has:
- A meaty, savory broth from beef and pork meatballs
- Herbaceous notes from greens like spinach or escarole
- Bright acidity from tomatoes
- Umami richness from cheeses like parmesan or pecorino romano
- Hearty texture from acini de pepe pasta
This blend of flavors and textures is satisfying for many American palates. The soup feels like a celebratory, hearty meal fit for a special occasion like a wedding.
Alternative Italian Soups for Weddings
Instead of Italian wedding soup, what are some authentic Italian soup options that could be served at American weddings? Here are a few ideas that provide a similar hearty, celebratory feel:
- Pasta e fagioli – The beans provide protein and the pasta adds hearty texture. Pecorino romano cheese could mimic the flavor of Italian wedding soup.
- Minestrone – Packed with vegetables and beans, minestrone makes a filling meal. Small pasta shapes work well.
- Farro soup – Farro is an ancient Italian grain. Mixed with vegetables and parmesan, it makes a hearty but elegant soup.
- Tortellini en brodo – This brothy soup is stuffed with meat tortellini. Spinach or other greens add color and freshness.
- Stracciatella – The egg and parmesan mixture creates a rich, creamy broth that’s perfect for celebrations.
Swapping one of these Italian soups in place of Italian wedding soup can give American weddings a more authentic taste of Italian cuisine.
Conclusion
Italian wedding soup is a beloved Italian-American dish, but it does not actually originate from Italy. Authentic Italian soups served at weddings include minestrone, pasta e fagioli, and stracciatella. While Italian wedding soup is not Italian per se, it does contain the Italian pasta acini de pepe. With its hearty textures and blend of savory flavors, Italian wedding soup has become a staple for good reason. However, for an even more authentic Italian flavor at American weddings, swapping in a soup like minestrone or farro soup may be an excellent option.