Thursday, December 25, 2008

Barefoot Bloggers: Pappa Al Pomidoro

Soup's On

Recipe chosen by: Me!
Link to Recipe: Pappa Al Pomidoro

My turn to pick a recipe! I wasn't really sure what this one would be like, but it sounded interesting.

To make things even more challenging, I left this until I was back in Ohio over the holidays. My mom's kitchen, all new equipment, completely new recipe, and two grocery store trips (the tiny one that had the pancetta didn't have the fennel bulb - figures :) made this one a three day affair. On the plus side, I finally got to cook for my parents. They've been salivating over the pictures for months without any way of tasting things.

Mom's Pot/Oven


I'd say reviews were mixed. Everyone loved the topping (because how can you go wrong with bread and pancetta?). Mom and hubby loved the soup. Dad was polite and finished his bowl, but that was about it. I'm still on the fence.

The soup went together easily, and the topping was just plain amazing. I liked how the ciabatta melted into the soup after simmering and gave it a lovely texture. The tomatoes were just a bit too acidic for me. It might have been the brand I chose, so I'll definitely give it another shot when I'm back in my kitchen.

Here's the hubby "helping":

Presented Prep


Again, I think Ina gave another winner. This is something I would have never chosen to make on my own, but it was a fantastic experience.

I hope everyone enjoyed it!

6 comments:

Judy said...

Thanks, Natalie, for a nice, savory dish to counteract all the sweet things this month.

Deb in Hawaii said...

I LOVED it! The topping was the best of course but the soup was delicious. You should give it another go with new tomatoes as I don't really like tomato soup but didn't find it acidic at all. Great pick!

Anonymous said...

This one really hit the spot, and the topping was amazing. Good choice!

Anonymous said...

This looks absolutely fabulous! Beautiful presentation! And good work getting the hubby to help in the kitchen!

Anonymous said...

Great recipe choice! It was a nice hearty soup during a very cold night for us!

Anonymous said...

natalie, thanks for such a great BB pick. i just finished making it tonight (ran a little late with this one due to the holidays). it was sooo good. :)