Fish meatball soup

Fish Meatball Soup

Discover the delight of a traditional recipe, full of flavors and nutrients! Fish meatball soup is a light and comforting dish, ideal for cool days or any occasion when you want to indulge in a bowl of goodness. This soup is not only tasty but also a healthy choice, packed with vitamins and minerals.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

- 350-400 g carp fillet (or other white fish of choice)
- 1 large carrot
- 1 parsnip
- 1 small celery
- 1 bell pepper
- 2 medium potatoes
- 2 onions
- 2-3 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 100 g rice
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 1 teaspoon of marjoram
- 1 teaspoon of basil
- 1 teaspoon of oregano
- Salt, to taste
- Lemon salt, to taste
- Greens (parsley, lovage) for serving

Preparing the Soup:

Step 1: Prepare the vegetables
Start by peeling and chopping the vegetables. Grate the carrot, parsnip, and celery on a large grater. Finely chop the bell pepper and onion. Cut the potatoes into small cubes. These vegetables will provide a rich flavor and a pleasant texture to your soup.

Step 2: Boil the vegetables
In a large pot, add all the chopped vegetables along with the rice (which you can rinse beforehand to remove excess starch). Cover everything with water and let it boil over medium heat. You can add salt to enhance the flavors. A useful trick: use warm water to speed up the boiling process.

Step 3: Prepare the meatballs
While the vegetables are boiling, prepare the meatballs. Use a food processor or meat grinder to chop the carp fillets, one onion, and a small carrot. In a bowl, add the mixture, one egg, flour, marjoram, salt, and mix well. The consistency should be slightly sticky but not too wet. If necessary, you can adjust the amount of flour.

Step 4: Add the meatballs
When the vegetables are almost cooked (about 20 minutes), form the meatballs using wet hands and carefully add them to the pot with the soup. Let them boil for 10-15 minutes until they rise to the surface and are fully cooked.

Step 5: Finish the soup
Add the tomato paste, salt to taste, and lemon salt for extra acidity. Let the soup boil for another 5-10 minutes, then add the finely chopped greens. This step will bring a fresh aroma and vibrant color to the dish.

Serving:
Fish meatball soup is served warm, with a spoonful of sour cream and, for extra flavor, with hot pepper. Another delicious option is to add a splash of lemon juice to enhance the flavors.

Helpful tips:
- If you prefer a more sour soup, you can add lemon juice or vinegar at the end.
- This dish can be frozen, but it is recommended to add fresh greens only when serving to preserve the vibrant flavor.
- Experiment with different types of fish, such as trout or catfish, for unique flavors.
- For a more intense taste, you can add a few drops of fish sauce to the soup mixture.

Nutritional information:
This soup is an excellent source of protein due to the fish, and the vegetables provide a high intake of fiber and vitamins. A serving of fish meatball soup contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It is a good choice for those looking to maintain a balanced and healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of rice?
Yes, you can use basmati rice or long-grain rice, but make sure to adjust the boiling time according to the type of rice used.

2. Can the soup be prepared in advance?
Absolutely! Those who want to save time can prepare the soup a day in advance; the flavors will intensify and it will be just as delicious.

3. What other recipes can I try with fish?
I recommend trying a fish tartare or grilled fillets with lemon sauce and herbs. These dishes pair perfectly with a fresh salad for lunch or dinner.

This fish meatball soup is not just a meal, but a culinary experience that brings together tradition and innovation. Savor every spoonful and enjoy the moments spent with loved ones around the table!