## Stanley Tucci’s String Bean Minestra: A Hearty and Flavorful Recipe
Stanley Tucci, the actor, writer, producer, and director known for his impeccable taste and passion for Italian cuisine, has shared many culinary gems with the world. Among them, his String Bean Minestra stands out as a simple yet incredibly satisfying dish. This isn’t just any soup; it’s a celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients, transformed into a comforting and flavorful meal. Minestra, meaning ‘soup’ in Italian, is a broad term, and Tucci’s version is a particularly delightful take, showcasing the humble string bean in a starring role.
This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a light lunch, or even as a starter for a more elaborate Italian feast. It’s also incredibly adaptable, allowing you to adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. The key to its success lies in the quality of the ingredients and the patient development of flavor.
**Why This Recipe Works**
* **Simplicity:** The recipe relies on basic ingredients, making it accessible to everyone.
* **Flavor Development:** The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld and deepen, resulting in a rich and complex broth.
* **Versatility:** You can easily customize the recipe with different vegetables, herbs, or pasta shapes.
* **Nutritious:** Packed with vegetables and beans, this minestra is a healthy and wholesome meal.
* **Tucci’s Touch:** Following Stanley Tucci’s guidance ensures a truly authentic and delicious Italian experience.
**Ingredients You’ll Need**
Before you begin, gather your ingredients. Freshness is key to maximizing the flavor of this minestra.
* **1 pound fresh string beans:** Look for firm, bright green beans. Trim the ends and cut them into 1-inch pieces.
* **1 large onion:** Yellow or white onion will work well. Dice it finely.
* **2 carrots:** Peel and dice the carrots into small pieces.
* **2 celery stalks:** Dice the celery into small pieces.
* **4 cloves garlic:** Mince the garlic finely. Fresh garlic is preferred for its pungent flavor.
* **1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes:** Use good-quality crushed tomatoes for the best flavor.
* **1 cup small pasta:** Ditalini, orzo, or elbow macaroni are good choices. Small pasta shapes cook quickly and evenly.
* **6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth):** Using homemade broth will elevate the flavor, but store-bought is perfectly fine.
* **1/2 cup fresh basil leaves:** Chop the basil roughly. It adds a fresh, aromatic note to the minestra.
* **1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving):** Parmesan cheese adds a salty, savory element to the dish. Pecorino Romano is another excellent option.
* **1/4 cup olive oil:** Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its rich flavor.
* **Salt and freshly ground black pepper:** To taste. Be generous with the seasoning to bring out the flavors of the vegetables.
* **Optional:** A pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
**Equipment**
* Large pot or Dutch oven
* Cutting board
* Knife
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Wooden spoon or spatula
**Step-by-Step Instructions**
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these detailed instructions to create your own delicious String Bean Minestra.
**Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables**
* Wash and trim the string beans. Cut them into 1-inch pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and are easy to eat.
* Peel and dice the onion, carrots, and celery. Aim for a similar size for all the vegetables to ensure even cooking.
* Mince the garlic. Set aside.
* Chop the fresh basil. Set aside.
**Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics**
* Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Make sure the pot is large enough to hold all the ingredients.
* Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and slightly translucent. Stir frequently to prevent them from burning.
* Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
**Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Broth**
* Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine with the vegetables. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to slightly reduce and deepen in flavor.
* Pour in the vegetable broth (or chicken broth). Bring the mixture to a simmer.
**Step 4: Add the String Beans and Pasta**
* Add the trimmed string beans and pasta to the pot. Stir well to combine.
* Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.
**Step 5: Simmer and Cook**
* Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the string beans are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
**Step 6: Finish and Serve**
* Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the chopped fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.
* Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or Parmesan cheese to your liking.
* Ladle the String Bean Minestra into bowls and serve immediately. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil, if desired.
**Tips for Success**
* **Use fresh, high-quality ingredients:** The better the ingredients, the better the flavor of the minestra.
* **Don’t overcook the pasta:** Cook the pasta until it’s al dente, or slightly firm to the bite. It will continue to cook slightly in the hot broth.
* **Adjust the broth:** If you prefer a thicker minestra, use less broth. If you prefer a thinner minestra, add more broth.
* **Season generously:** Don’t be afraid to season the minestra well with salt and pepper. This will help to bring out the flavors of the vegetables.
* **Let the flavors meld:** Simmering the minestra for at least 15 minutes allows the flavors to meld and deepen.
* **Make it ahead of time:** Minestra is often even better the next day, as the flavors have had more time to develop. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
**Variations and Additions**
One of the best things about minestra is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors.
* **Add other vegetables:** Consider adding zucchini, potatoes, spinach, kale, or Swiss chard. Add heartier vegetables like potatoes along with the carrots and celery, and leafy greens during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
* **Add beans:** Cannellini beans, borlotti beans, or chickpeas would be delicious additions.
* **Add meat:** For a heartier minestra, add cooked sausage, pancetta, or prosciutto. Brown the meat before adding the vegetables.
* **Use different herbs:** Try adding rosemary, thyme, or oregano. Add them along with the garlic.
* **Make it vegan:** Omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan Parmesan alternative.
* **Add a squeeze of lemon juice:** A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a bright, acidic note to the minestra.
* **Serve with crusty bread:** A slice of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.
**Serving Suggestions**
Stanley Tucci’s String Bean Minestra is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it as a starter or side dish.
* **As a starter:** Serve a small bowl of minestra before a main course of roasted chicken, grilled fish, or pasta.
* **As a light lunch:** Enjoy a bowl of minestra with a side salad and some crusty bread.
* **As a side dish:** Serve minestra alongside a grilled steak, pork chop, or lamb chop.
* **For a potluck:** Minestra is a great dish to bring to a potluck or gathering. It’s easy to transport and can be served at room temperature.
**Nutritional Information (Approximate)**
* Calories: 250-350 per serving (depending on ingredients and serving size)
* Protein: 10-15 grams
* Fat: 10-15 grams
* Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams
* Fiber: 5-8 grams
**Storage Instructions**
* **Refrigerate:** Store leftover String Bean Minestra in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
* **Freeze:** Minestra can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
**Why Stanley Tucci?**
Stanley Tucci’s passion for Italian cuisine is infectious. His approach to cooking is simple, authentic, and focused on using fresh, high-quality ingredients. He encourages home cooks to embrace the joy of cooking and to experiment with flavors. His String Bean Minestra recipe is a perfect example of his culinary philosophy: a simple dish that is packed with flavor and made with love.
**Conclusion**
Stanley Tucci’s String Bean Minestra is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, anyone can make this delicious soup at home. So, gather your ingredients, put on some Italian music, and get ready to enjoy a taste of Italy! Buon appetito!
**Further Exploration**
To delve deeper into Stanley Tucci’s culinary world, consider exploring his books, such as “The Tucci Cookbook” and “Tucci & Family.” You can also find many of his recipes and cooking tips online. Watching his CNN series, “Searching for Italy,” is also highly recommended for a truly immersive culinary experience. He also has a line of food products in which you can try his sauces and other things to immerse yourself in his world of cooking.
Enjoy your journey into the world of Stanley Tucci and his delightful Italian cuisine!