Instructions

1. Prepare the Soffritto: Start by finely chopping the onion and garlic. In a large pan, heat a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over low heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 10-15 minutes until they are soft and translucent. This creates the base flavor for the Pappa al Pomodoro.
2. Add the Peeled Tomatoes: Pour the peeled tomatoes into the pan and crush them with a fork to achieve a rustic texture. Season lightly with salt and let the sauce simmer until it thickens slightly, enhancing the deep tomato flavor.
3. Slice the Stale Tuscan Bread: While the sauce is cooking, cut the stale Tuscan bread into slices about 1 cm thick. Stale bread is essential for achieving the perfect texture in Pappa al Pomodoro.
4. Combine Broth, Basil, and Bread: Once the tomato sauce is ready, add the fresh basil leaves, 300 g of hot vegetable broth, and the pieces of stale bread. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, allowing the bread to soak up the tomato and broth mixture.
5. Let the Mixture Rest: Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This step is crucial for the bread to absorb the liquid fully and soften, creating the signature thick consistency of Tuscan Pappa al Pomodoro.
6. Mash to Desired Consistency: After resting, use the back of a spoon to mix and mash the bread until it reaches a porridge-like consistency. If needed, add more broth to adjust the texture to your liking, whether more moist or creamy.
7. Mash to Desired Consistency: After resting, use the back of a spoon to mix and mash the bread until it reaches a porridge-like consistency. If needed, add more broth to adjust the texture to your liking, whether more moist or creamy.
8. Season and Serve: Taste the Pappa al Pomodoro and adjust the salt if necessary. Finish with a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a rich, authentic flavor. Serve immediately for a warm and comforting dish that embodies the flavors of Tuscany. Enjoy this delicious Pappa al Pomodoro recipe that brings the taste of traditional Tuscan cuisine to your table!