Chicken meatball soup

Chicken meatball soup - A warm hug in every spoon

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Chicken meatball soup is a classic, comforting dish that evokes memories of family meals, cool days, or moments when we need a dose of warmth and well-being. This simple and delicious recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it ideal for anyone looking for a healthy meal. Moreover, chicken meatballs are an excellent choice for a quick lunch or a comforting dinner, while the vegetables in the soup provide essential vitamins.

Ingredients needed:

- 500 g ground chicken (you can use freshly ground chicken for a better taste)
- 1 egg (helps bind the meatballs)
- 200 g rice (preferably long-grain rice, which absorbs flavors well)
- 2 onions (for a delicious taste)
- 2 carrots (adds sweetness and color)
- 1 parsnip (a rustic vegetable that enriches the flavor)
- ½ bell pepper (any color you prefer, for added freshness)
- Salt (to taste)
- 1 bunch of parsley (for an extra flavor)
- 1 bunch of lovage (an aromatic herb that perfectly complements the soup)
- Olive oil (for cooking)

Step by step - Cooking the meatball soup:

1. Preparing the vegetables:
Start by cleaning and washing all the vegetables. Properly cutting the vegetables is essential for a flavorful soup. Finely chop the onion, grate the carrot and parsnip, and dice the bell pepper into small cubes.

2. Boiling the soup base:
Put a large pot of water to boil. When the water reaches boiling point, add the chopped vegetables, a teaspoon of salt, and a little olive oil. Vinegar can be added later to enhance the flavor. Let the vegetables boil over medium heat for about 10 minutes or until they become slightly soft.

3. Preparing the meatballs:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, egg, washed rice, and salt to taste. Mix everything well with your hands until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. Form the meatballs to the desired size, usually about the size of a golf ball, but you can make them smaller or larger according to your preferences.

4. Adding the meatballs:
When the vegetables in the pot are cooked, carefully add the formed meatballs. It is important to add them gently to avoid breaking them. Cook for 10-15 minutes until they rise to the surface and become opaque.

5. Finalizing the soup:
After the meatballs are cooked, add half a can of peeled and chopped tomatoes. These will provide a rich taste and pleasant acidity. Let the soup boil for another 5 minutes. At this point, you can adjust the taste with a little salt or pepper.

6. Adding the greens:
Before serving, finely chop the parsley and lovage and add them to the soup. These will add extra freshness and flavor. Cover the pot and let the soup sit for a few minutes to blend the flavors.

Serving suggestions:

This chicken meatball soup is perfect served hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or flavored croutons. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra touch of freshness. If you want a more complex meal, you can pair the soup with a seasonal salad that highlights fresh vegetables.

Tips and variations:

- Variations of ingredients: You can experiment with different types of meat (turkey, beef) or add other vegetables, such as celery or zucchini. You can also use whole grain rice for an extra nutrient boost.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of chicken meatball soup has about 350-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It is rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nourishing meal for the whole family.
- Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use grilled chicken instead of ground chicken? Yes, but you will need to chop it finely.
- Can I freeze the soup? Yes, the soup can be frozen, but it is recommended to do so without the rice, adding it later when defrosting.
- How can I make the soup spicier? You can add hot pepper or spices like red pepper.

Personal story:

I fondly remember the moments spent in the kitchen with my grandmother when chicken meatball soup was a staple at Sunday meals. The aroma of the boiling vegetables on the stove brought us all together around the table and made us feel at home. This recipe is not just a simple soup, but a tradition that continues to bring the family together, even on the busiest days.

I hope this chicken meatball soup recipe becomes one of your favorites. That’s what I wish, to offer you not just a recipe but also a culinary experience that brings smiles and unforgettable moments with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!