Minestra (a type of leafy green italian soup)

parmesan cheese

🥗Healthier: nutritional yeast

💰Cheaper: grated cheddar

Nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor with fewer calories.

vegetable broth

🥗Healthier: homemade broth

💰Cheaper: water + bouillon cubes

Homemade broth is lower in sodium and fresher.

In a large deep heavy pot, over medium/high heat, pour the water and add the vegetable shortening, bay leaves, onion, garlic, pork meat, salt and black pepper. Bring to a boil and cook till the meat is completely cooked (approximately 1 1/2 hour). Periodically check for food residue (scum) that floats at the top of the surface. Gently skim it off. The water will evaporate, accordingly add more water.

While the meat is cooking, roughly chop the escarole and rinse it well (at least twice) to make sure that all the earthy dirt is washed out. Place in a large bowl and set aside. Rinse your canned beans, place in a bowl and set aside.

Once your meat is fully cooked, remove from the pot and place in a serving dish. Add the escarole in the pot, with the chili flakes and nestle in the cheese rinds. Cook for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the leafy greens are cooked to your liking.

Add in your choice of beans (we used 2 cans of kidney beans) and cook for an additional 2-3 mins to slightly soften them.

Plate the meal and serve your family, along with pagnotta (Italian style bread). But stale bread is best.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens