Millecosedde – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Italy Region / Locale: Calabria Servings: Serves 6
Italy Region / Locale: Calabria Servings: Serves 6Millecosedde, a classic Italian soup, boasts a delightful medley of vegetables, beans, and pasta, embodying the rustic charm of Italy’s vibrant culinary tapestry. Originating from Southern Italy, particularly the region of Apulia, this hearty soup reflects the tradition of utilizing simple, accessible ingredients to create deeply satisfying and nourishing meals. It’s a dish that beautifully ties together the earth’s bounty with time-honored methods, offering both comfort and complexity in each spoonful.
Ingredients
- olive oil – 2 tbsp / 30 ml
- yellow onion, diced – 1 large / 150 g
- carrot, sliced – 2 medium / 120 g
- celery stalk, sliced – 2 stalks / 100 g
- zucchini, diced – 1 medium / 200 g
- tomatoes, diced – 2 large / 300 g
- vegetable broth – 6 cups / 1.5 L
- canned cannellini beans, drained and rinsed – 1 can / 400 g
- dried ditalini pasta – 1 cup / 180 g
- fresh basil leaves, chopped – 1/4 cup / 10 g
- salt – to taste
- black pepper – to taste
- Parmesan cheese, grated – 1/2 cup / 50 g
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the zucchini and tomatoes to the pot. Stir and cook for another 3 minutes.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add the cannellini beans and ditalini pasta to the soup. Cook until the pasta is al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped basil leaves. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.
Substitutions
- vegetable broth -> chicken broth
- canned cannellini beans -> navy beans
- ditalini pasta -> elbow macaroni
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.
- Incorporate a Parmesan rind to the broth for added depth of flavor.
- Add a splash of white wine after sautéing the vegetables for enhanced complexity.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
