America's Test Kitchen Season 14 Episode 15 Hearty Spanish and Italian Soups, Revamped

In season 14, episode 15 of America's Test Kitchen, viewers are treated to an exploration of hearty Spanish and Italian soups that have been revamped for a modern audience. The experts at America's Test Kitchen know that these comforting soups are a meal unto themselves, and they're determined to make them more flavorful and satisfying than ever before.

First up is a classic Spanish soup, sopa de ajo. Traditionally, this soup is made with stale bread and garlic, but the test kitchen team has found a way to make it richer and more flavorful by swapping in chickpeas and spinach. They also add some smoky paprika and a touch of sherry vinegar to give the soup depth and complexity. It's a simple but delicious soup, perfect for a cozy night in.

The next soup is Italian, specifically a Tuscan vegetable soup called ribollita. This soup is a way to use up leftovers, and traditionally it's made by reheating a pot of vegetable soup with some bread and cheese. The test kitchen team takes this rustic soup to the next level by making their own vegetable broth and adding a variety of hearty vegetables like butternut squash, kale, and cannellini beans. They also use a pressure cooker to speed up the cooking process, making this a weeknight-friendly supper that's packed with nutrition.

For a heartier taste of Italy, the America's Test Kitchen team makes a classic minestrone soup. But instead of the bland and watery soups that are often served in restaurants, their version is rich and full of flavor, with plenty of vegetables and a bit of pancetta for a savory touch. They also use a trick to keep the pasta from getting mushy, making this a soup that's perfect for reheating throughout the week.

Finally, the team turns their attention to a Spanish soup called fabada asturiana. This hearty soup is made with pork, beans, and vegetables, and it's a perfect winter warmer. The test kitchen team adds some chorizo sausage for an extra pop of flavor, as well as some smoked paprika and saffron to lend the soup a sophisticated depth and complexity. It's a delicious and filling soup that's perfect for a cold night.

Throughout the episode, the team shares plenty of tips and techniques for making these soups even better. They show viewers how to make their own vegetable broth, how to keep pasta from getting mushy in soup, and how to speed up the cooking process with a pressure cooker. They also talk about the importance of using high-quality ingredients and how to balance flavors to make a truly exceptional soup.

Overall, Hearty Spanish and Italian Soups, Revamped is a feast for the senses. Viewers will be treated to a tour of some of the most comforting and flavorful soups from around the world, as well as some insider tips for making their own soups at home. If you're a fan of hearty, comforting meals, this is an episode you won't want to miss.