Vegetable cream with tomatoes and chicken meatballs

Vegetable cream soup with tomatoes and chicken meatballs

Who doesn't love a warm soup that delights the senses and offers priceless comfort? Vegetable cream soup with tomatoes and chicken meatballs is a perfect recipe for chilly days or when you simply want to indulge in a delicious dish. This nutrient-rich soup is not only healthy but also extremely flavorful.

In this guide, I will accompany you step by step in preparing this recipe, providing you with useful tips and information about the ingredients. You will discover how to achieve a perfect cream soup and how to prepare the chicken meatballs that will transform each bowl into something special.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

For the cream soup:
- 1.5 liters chicken broth (can also be from cubes, but preferably homemade)
- 2 carrots (approximately 200 g)
- 2 potatoes (approximately 250 g)
- 1 onion (approximately 100 g)
- 2-3 garlic cloves
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon sunflower oil
- 200 ml cooking cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 500 ml passata with basil (thicker tomato sauce with basil)

For the meatballs:
- 500 g chicken breast (finely chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Freshly chopped parsley (approximately 2 tablespoons)
- 1 smaller egg or 1 yolk
- 1-2 tablespoons semolina (enough to bind the mixture)
- 2 tablespoons finely grated parmesan

For the pesto:
- 1 bunch parsley
- 1 bunch basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 50 ml olive oil
- 3 tablespoons almond flakes
- 3 tablespoons grated parmesan or pecorino, or aged cheese

Preparation:

Step 1: Let's start with the cream soup. In a large pot, heat the sunflower oil and butter over medium heat. This mixture will provide a rich aroma and delicate taste.

Step 2: Add the finely chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent. The oil and butter will help release the flavors, and the onion will give a base taste to the dish.

Step 3: Peel the carrots and potatoes, then cut them into small cubes. Add the vegetables to the pot and sauté for 2-3 minutes. This step will intensify the flavors and begin to develop the soup's texture.

Step 4: Add the chicken broth. If using broth from cubes, make sure it is well dissolved in hot water. Boil the vegetables over medium heat until they become soft, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 5: Once the vegetables are cooked, use an immersion blender to puree them until you achieve a smooth consistency. Add the cooking cream and tomato passata, then mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: If you want a very fine texture, you can blend the soup again. This will achieve perfect creaminess.

Step 7: Now it's time to prepare the meatballs! In a bowl, mix the minced chicken with salt, pepper, chopped parsley, the egg, and semolina. Use wet hands to form medium-sized meatballs. This trick will prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands.

Step 8: Boil the meatballs in salted boiling water for 10-15 minutes. They are ready when they rise to the surface. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the water and add them to the cream soup.

Step 9: Put the soup with meatballs on the heat and let it come to a boil for a few minutes so that the flavors combine.

Step 10: Meanwhile, you can prepare the pesto. In a food processor, add parsley, basil, olive oil, almond flakes, parmesan, salt, and pepper. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste. The pesto will add a fresh and vibrant note to your soup.

Step 11: Finally, serve the cream soup with a few drops of pumpkin oil and a teaspoon of parsley and basil pesto on top. The flavors will blend perfectly, and each bite will be an explosion of tastes.

Useful tips:
- If you want to save time, you can use frozen vegetables. They are already chopped and will reduce the preparation time.
- For a vegetarian option, you can replace the chicken breast with tofu cheese or other plant-based proteins.
- Add spices like cumin or coriander for an extra flavor boost to your soup.
- Serve the soup with crunchy croutons or toasted bread for a contrast of textures.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other vegetables in the soup?
Yes, you can add zucchini, celery, or even beetroot for a vibrant color and different taste.

2. How can I make this soup spicier?
Add a chopped chili pepper or a few drops of chili sauce during cooking for a spicy flavor.

3. Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, the soup is rich in vegetables, offers low calories, and many vitamins and minerals. The chicken meatballs add essential proteins.

Recommended combinations:
To complete the meal, you can serve the soup with a fresh arugula and cherry tomato salad, drizzled with a simple vinaigrette. It provides a perfect contrast and adds a touch of freshness. Also, a glass of white wine or herbal tea will perfectly complement the culinary experience.

So, don't hesitate! Put on your apron and prepare this delicious vegetable cream soup with tomatoes and chicken meatballs, and your family and friends will be delighted with the final result!