Turkey meatball soup

Turkey meatball soup – a comforting delight

Let’s embark together on a journey through flavors and culinary delights with a classic yet modern recipe: turkey meatball soup! This dish is perfect for chilly days or when we want to enjoy a healthy, nutrient-packed meal. Soup is a symbol of hospitality, bringing together love and tradition in a steaming bowl.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: 6

Necessary ingredients:

For the meatballs:
- 500 g ground turkey
- 1 small onion, finely chopped or grated
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons of rice (you can use long-grain rice for a better texture)
- 2 eggs
- A handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped

For the soup:
- 3 tablespoons of sunflower or olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 carrot, diced
- 3 potatoes, diced
- ½ small celery, diced
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 parsnip, grated or diced
- 2 bunches of red orach, chopped (or any preferred greens)
- 2 bunches of fresh lovage, chopped
- 2 tablespoons of pepper or tomato paste
- 1 liter of boiled borscht
- Salt, to taste

Preparation:

1. Preparing the vegetables for the soup: In a large pot, add the 3 tablespoons of oil and sauté the chopped onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent. Add the carrot, potatoes, celery, bell pepper, and parsnip diced. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently. This step will bring the flavors to life and prepare the perfect base for the soup.

2. Adding water and spices: After the vegetables have sautéed, add a cup of water, the pepper paste, and a teaspoon of salt. Cover the pot with a lid and let the vegetables simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes. Then, add 3-4 cups of water and let it all boil.

3. Preparing the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey with the grated onion, salt, pepper, rice, and chopped parsley. Beat the eggs separately and add them to the mixture, ensuring everything is well combined. Set the mixture aside for 20 minutes. This time is essential for the flavors to meld and for the rice to absorb moisture.

4. Forming the meatballs: After the mixture has rested, wet your hands and form medium-sized meatballs. It is recommended to make them a little smaller, as they will swell during boiling.

5. Boiling the meatballs: In a separate pot, add salted water and bring it to a boil. Carefully add the meatballs and let them boil until they rise to the surface (about 10-15 minutes). They are now perfectly cooked!

6. Finalizing the soup: Check if the vegetables in the soup pot are cooked. If so, add the chopped orach and lovage, letting them simmer for a few minutes. Add the boiled borscht and water from the pot where the meatballs boiled, if you prefer a stronger flavor. Taste the soup and adjust the salt to your liking.

7. Serving: After the soup has boiled a few times, turn off the heat. Serve the soup hot, with a spoonful of sour cream on top and a slice of fresh bread on the side. You can garnish it with a lovage leaf for a special touch.

Useful tips:
- If you want a lighter option, you can use turkey meat with lower fat content or even chicken.
- Add vegetables of your choice, such as zucchini or squash, to enhance the flavor and increase fiber intake.
- You can also use dried herbs, such as oregano or basil, for a different aroma.
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and the flavor gets even better the next day.

Nutritional benefits:
Turkey meatball soup is a healthy and nourishing option. Turkey is an excellent source of lean protein, while the vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals. A serving of soup can contain about 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used. This is a balanced meal, rich in fiber due to the vegetables, making it ideal for a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of meat for the meatballs? Of course! You can use pork or beef, but the flavor will be different.
- How can I make the soup more sour? You can add more borscht or lemon juice according to your preferences.
- What side dish pairs best? A slice of homemade bread or toasted croutons are perfect to complement the meal.

This turkey meatball soup is not just a meal; it is a culinary experience that brings warmth and comfort. Prepare it with love and enjoy every bite! It can quickly become a family favorite, full of memories and pleasant moments. Savor it alongside a fruit compote or a fragrant tea for a complete and comforting meal!