Blender or immersion blender (optional) if you prefer a smooth texture
Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
From-Scrath Longer Version:
6cupsbone broth or stockchicken, beef, or vegetable
4cupschopped tomatoesor 2 cans (28 oz total) diced tomatoes
1largeoniondiced
3clovesgarlicminced
2tbspolive oil
2tbsptomato paste
1tspdried thymeor two fresh sprigs
12pierogior more
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and diced carrots. Cook until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
Add Tomato Paste and Tomatoes: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes. Add the fresh chopped tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes (with juice) and cook for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. If using fresh tomatoes, cook until they are softened.
Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken, vegetable, or beef bone broth. Use an immersion blender at this stage if you prefer a creamy and smooth texture, but this is optional. Add the dried thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
Add Pierogi: Carefully add the pierogi to the simmering soup. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the pierogi float to the surface and are heated through.
Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, aiming for 3-4 pierogi per meal portion or 1-2 per starter portion. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, then add the cubed cheese to each bowl. If using bacon, add the crumbled bacon at this point.
Optional toppings: Crumbled cooked bacon, cubed or crumbled cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or feta.)
Instructions
Combine Broth and Tomatoes: In a large pot, pour in 6 cups of bone broth and 2 cups of tomato passata. Stir to mix and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
Season the Soup: Add 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to incorporate.
Simmer: Let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Add Pierogi: Carefully add 12-16 pierogi to the simmering soup. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the pierogi float to the top and are heated through.
Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls. If desired, top with crumbled bacon and cubed or crumbled cheese. Enjoy warm!