Meaning little rags, stracciatella is the name for three different Italian foods: soup, cheese, and gelato – the only thing they have in common is their name. 

Stracciatella soup

Stracciatella soup originated centuries ago in Rome. Back in the day, people bought large quantities of meat to make their Christmas broth, and would always have a substantial amount leftover, which led to the soup recipe.

To prepare it, bring the meat broth to a boil. In the meantime, beat the eggs with chopped parsley and grated Parmigiano Reggiano. Adjust the salt and pepper to taste, then add the eggs to the broth over low heat, whisking constantly, and serve with toasted bread crostini. The soup is named for the beaten eggs, which look like little straccetti (little rags).