Indulge in a bowl of comfort with this delectable Sausage and Tortellini Soup recipe, brought to you from the kitchen of the Savvy Sommelier, Mel Aubert, aka @WiningWithMel. Paired best with Pinot Noir, Gamay, or other low-tannin red wines, this savoury creation is a symphony of flavours that will warm your soul.
Ingredients:
- 1 package of sausage – cut into pieces or use sausage meat without casing
- 1 small onion (Spanish, vidalia, or shallots)
- 3 cloves of garlic, chopped
- 1 red/orange bell pepper, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 pinch of fennel seeds (Mel says that this is the key ingredient – don’t skip!)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 tsp basil and oregano (each)
- 6 cups chicken stock
- 3 cups spinach
- 1 package of tortellini
Method:
- Sausage Sizzle: In a large stockpot, cook sausage pieces in 1 tablespoon of olive oil for approximately 10 minutes. Once perfectly browned, transfer the sausage to a bowl covered with a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Save 1 teaspoon of fat/oil in the pot – it’s flavor magic.
- Aromatics Assembly: Cook the onion in the leftover oil for approximately 4 minutes until it becomes translucent and aromatic. Add the chopped garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Introduce the red/orange bell pepper, cooking until it starts to soften.
- Broth Bonanza: Time to elevate the flavors. Add the chicken stock, crushed red pepper flakes, fennel seeds (the secret weapon), bay leaf, basil, and oregano. Bring this aromatic symphony to a boil, letting the flavors meld.
- Tortellini Tango: Now, introduce the star players – the cooked sausage and the tortellini. Let them dance in the pot, simmering for 6-7 minutes until the tortellini is perfectly cooked.
- Spinach Swirl: Add the spinach gradually, letting it wilt in the warmth of the broth. The vibrant green adds both color and nutrition to the ensemble. Serve the soup when the spinach is beautifully wilted.
The Perfect Pairing For This Sausage and Tortellini Soup Recipe
As recommended by Mel Aubert, this soup pairs wonderfully with Pinot Noir, Gamay, or other low-tannin red wines. The rich, savory notes of the soup complement the subtle complexities of these red wine varieties.
Pro Tip: Allow the soup to sit for a while before serving. Like a fine wine, it gets better with time as the flavours meld and create a delightful symphony in your bowl.
Warm your heart and please your palate with this Sausage and Tortellini Soup – a comforting creation perfect for chilly nights or whenever you crave a bowl of homemade goodness. Enjoy the magic of Mel’s recipe paired with your favourite wine, and let the flavours transport you to a culinary haven. Cheers!