Valdostana Soup: Traditions and Original Recipe

Zuppa Valdostana: The Original and Traditional Recipe

If you want to prepare authentic Zuppa Valdostana, follow this simple yet traditional recipe.  

Ingredients (for 4 people):
- 300 g of rye bread (stale)  
- 300 g of Fontina DOP, the signature cheese of the Aosta Valley  
- 1 liter of meat broth  
- 100 g of butter  
- Nutmeg to taste  
- Savoy cabbage (optional, included in some traditional variations)  
Step-by-Step Preparation of Zuppa Valdostana: 

1. Prepare the bread and Fontina – Slice the rye bread thinly and cut the Fontina into pieces.  
2. Layer the ingredients – In a buttered baking dish, alternate layers of bread, Fontina, and, if desired, blanched Savoy cabbage.  
3. Add the broth – Pour the hot broth over the ingredients until fully covered.  
4. Bake – Distribute small pieces of butter on top and bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 30 minutes, until a golden crust forms.  
5. Serve hot – Let it rest for a few minutes and serve, ideally paired with a glass of Aosta Valley red wine.  

History of Zuppa Valdostana

Locally known as soupe à la valpellinentze, Zuppa Valdostana originates from the rural traditions of the Aosta Valley.
The goal was to use simple, locally sourced ingredients, such as stale rye bread and Fontina DOP, creating a hearty dish that could withstand the region’s harsh Alpine climate.  

Fun Fact:

Zuppa Valdostana was often prepared for special occasions and gatherings making it a symbol of warmth and sharing. Even today, it tells the story of the Aosta Valley through its rich and comforting flavors.  

Where to Eat Zuppa Valdostana in the Aosta Valley 

If you're visiting the Aosta Valley and want to experience authentic Zuppa Valdostana, here are some recommended restaurants:  

Breuil-Cervinia:
- Ristorante Alpage – Località Lago Blu, 4, 11028 Breuil-Cervinia, Valtournenche 
- Chalet Etoile – Plan Maison, 11021 Breuil-Cervinia, Valtournenche
- La Luge – Località Varvoyes Perreres, 11028 Breuil-Cervinia, Valtournenche 

Valtournenche:
- Ristorante Pizzeria Big Ben – Via Roma, 30, 11028 Valtournenche
- Chalet La Roisette – Località La Roisette, 11028 Valtournenche  
- Ristorante Foyer des Guides – Località Breuil Cervinia, 11021 Valtournenche 

Aosta:
- Paolo Griffa al Caffè Nazionale – Piazza Emile Chanoux, 10, 11100 Aosta
- Vecchio Ristoro – Via Tourneuve, 4, 11100 Aosta

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Where to Stay in the Aosta Valley?

These restaurants offer the opportunity to **savor Zuppa Valdostana and other local specialties** in a cozy and authentic atmosphere.  

More than just a dish, Zuppa Valdostana is a true culinary experience, embodying the history, culture, and authentic flavors of the Aosta Valley.
Whether you prepare it at home or enjoy it in a restaurant, it will introduce you to the heart of Alpine cuisine.