Meatball and pork soup

Meatball soup with pork: a traditional recipe full of flavor

Meatball soup is a beloved dish in many kitchens, with deep roots in culinary tradition. This tasty soup, with a savory mix of vegetables and meat, is not just food, but also a symbol of comfort and gathering around the table. Whether served on a special occasion or on an ordinary day, meatball soup always brings smiles and joy.

In this recipe, I will guide you step by step, providing useful tips to achieve a delicious soup.

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

Ingredients:
- 2 carrots
- 1 onion
- 1 small celery
- 1 bell pepper
- 50 ml sunflower oil
- 200 g minced pork
- 1 piece of pork (approximately 300 g)
- 1 tablespoon of semolina
- 2 eggs
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 bunch of lovage
- 1.5 liters of water
- 0.5 cup rice
- 1 lemon (optional, for serving)
- Salt, pepper, and possibly a pinch of Delikat

Preparing the meatball soup:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing and peeling the vegetables. Cut the carrots into rounds, the onion and bell pepper into small cubes, and finely chop the celery. This combination of vegetables will not only give the soup a wonderful taste but will also add vibrant color.

2. Boiling the vegetables: In a large pot, heat the oil and add the chopped vegetables. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until they become translucent. Then add the water and the piece of meat. Let it boil over medium heat, covering the pot.

3. Preparing the meatballs: In a separate bowl, mix the minced meat with salt, pepper, and semolina. The latter ingredient will help bind the meatballs, giving them a pleasant texture. Form the meatballs with wet hands to avoid sticking.

4. Adding the rice and meatballs: After about 20 minutes of boiling the vegetables, add the rice, stirring well. After 5 minutes, you can carefully introduce the meatballs into the pot. Let everything boil for 15-20 minutes until the rice and meatballs are cooked.

5. Finalizing the soup: Beat the eggs in a bowl and gradually add them to the soup, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. This will add a special creaminess.

6. Serving: When the soup is ready, remove it from the heat and add the finely chopped parsley and lovage. These herbs will enhance the flavor of the dish. You can serve the soup with a slice of lemon for a fresh and tangy taste.

Tips and practical advice:
- Use pork with a higher fat content for a richer and tastier soup.
- You can experiment with adding other vegetables, such as zucchini or green beans, to diversify the recipe.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can use chicken instead of pork.
- Meatball soup is even tastier the next day when the flavors have had time to meld.

Nutritional benefits:
Meatball soup is an excellent source of protein due to the meat and eggs, while the vegetables provide essential vitamins and fiber. Additionally, this dish can be a low-calorie option if you use lean meat and reduce the oil.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use beef or chicken for the meatballs?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe using other types of meat according to your preferences.
- How can I make the soup more sour?
Adding lemon juice or a tablespoon of borscht at the end will give a pleasant sour note.

Serving suggestions and combinations:
Meatball soup pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or polenta. Additionally, a summer salad with tomatoes and cucumbers will add a refreshing contrast.

In conclusion, meatball soup with pork is a classic dish full of flavor and warmth. With each spoonful, you will feel the comfort that this food brings. I hope you enjoy every step of cooking and impress your family and friends with this delicious recipe!