Chicken meatball soup

Chicken meatball soup is a perfect choice for cold days when we crave a warm, comforting, and flavorful meal. This recipe combines the savory taste of chicken with fresh vegetables and delicious meatballs, providing you with a culinary experience that will warm your heart and soul. Additionally, it is a simple, quick, and healthy recipe, ideal for the whole family.

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

Ingredients

- 600 g ground chicken
- 200 ml tomato juice
- 1 medium onion
- 1 carrot
- 1 bell pepper
- A piece of celery (about 100 g)
- 2-3 potatoes (about 300 g)
- 50 g rice
- 500 ml borscht
- 1 egg
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Oil, for sautéing (optional)

Preparing the ingredients

Start by washing all the vegetables well. The onion, carrot, bell pepper, and celery can be diced according to your preference, or you can choose to grate them for better integration into the soup. Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes for quicker cooking. Rinse the rice to remove excess starch, which can make the soup more viscous.

Preparing the soup

1. Boil the vegetables: In a large pot, add about 2 liters of water and bring it to a boil. When the water starts boiling, add the onion, carrot, bell pepper, and celery. Let them boil over medium heat for 10 minutes until softened.

2. Add the potatoes and rice: After the vegetables have started to soften, add the diced potatoes and rinsed rice. Continue to boil the soup over medium heat, stirring gently from time to time to prevent sticking.

3. Preparing the meatballs: In a bowl, combine the ground chicken with salt, pepper, oregano, and the lightly beaten egg. Use wet hands to shape meatballs of appropriate size. These will add a pleasant texture to the soup.

4. Add the meatballs to the soup: When the potatoes and rice are almost cooked, add the meatballs to the soup, allowing them to cook slowly. They will be ready when they become opaque and slightly firm to the touch.

5. Finalizing the soup: Once the meatballs are cooked, add the borscht and let the soup come to a boil again. Taste and adjust the seasonings by adding salt and pepper as needed.

6. Serving the soup: Once the soup is ready, pour it into bowls and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for added freshness. If desired, you can serve the soup with a spoonful of sour cream, which will add creaminess and balance the acidity of the borscht.

Tips and tricks

- For a more intense flavor: You can add a tablespoon of tomato paste to the soup for a richer taste.
- Variations: Instead of chicken, you can use pork or beef, and for a vegetarian option, replace the meat with mushrooms or vegetables.
- Storing the soup: Chicken meatball soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can be frozen for later consumption. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing.
- Nutritional benefits: Chicken meatball soup is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, thanks to the fresh vegetables and lean chicken meat. It is a nourishing option, perfect for maintaining energy throughout the day.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use brown rice? Yes, you can use brown rice, but the cooking time will be longer. Make sure to add the rice a few minutes earlier for it to cook properly.
- How can I make the soup spicier? If you like it spicy, you can add a chopped chili pepper or a few drops of hot sauce during cooking.
- Can I make the soup vegan? Yes, you can replace the chicken with plant-based proteins like tofu or seitan, and use vegetables instead of borscht.

Delicious combinations

Chicken meatball soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of fresh bread or polenta. You can also enjoy the soup with a dry white wine or herbal tea to complete the meal.

Personal notes

This meatball soup recipe reminds me of the days spent with family, when food was not just about nourishing ourselves but also about connecting. Each serving is a warm hug, and its aroma will make you feel at home, no matter where you are. Perhaps, after preparing it, you will want to share this delicious soup with your loved ones, turning a simple meal into a special moment of togetherness.

So, don't delay any longer! Put on your apron and enjoy making this chicken meatball soup, which will surely become one of your favorite recipes!