Meatball soup

Meatball soup is a traditional recipe that brings people together around the table, evoking pleasant childhood memories and family moments. This savory soup is not only a comforting meal but also an explosion of flavors and textures that will delight both family members and guests.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 70 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients

For the soup:
- 1 large carrot (or 2 small ones)
- 1 large onion (set aside a bit for the meatballs)
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 parsnip
- 2 tablespoons "The Secret of Flavor" with vegetables (or another favorite seasoning)
- 1 bunch of lovage
- 1 bunch of parsley
- 3 liters of water

For the meatballs:
- 450 g ground meat (mix of pork and beef)
- 3 tablespoons rice
- 1 tablespoon sour cream
- 1 egg
- 2 slices of bread (preferably older, for better texture)
- salt to taste
- pepper to taste
- chopped parsley (to preference)

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the vegetables

1. Start by washing and peeling the carrot, parsnip, and bell pepper. Grate the carrot and parsnip, and chop the bell pepper into small cubes.
2. Finely chop the onion, keeping some for the meatballs. These vegetables will form the flavorful base of your soup.

Step 2: Boiling the vegetables

1. In a large pot, add the 3 liters of water and bring it to a boil. When the water starts to boil, add the grated and chopped vegetables (carrot, parsnip, onion, and bell pepper).
2. Add the 2 tablespoons of "The Secret of Flavor" with vegetables to enhance the flavors. Let the vegetables boil over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, until they start to soften.

Step 3: Preparing the meatballs

1. In a large bowl, mix the ground meat with the bread soaked in water (squeeze out the excess water before adding it).
2. Add the washed rice, egg, sour cream, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture.
3. With wet hands, form medium-sized meatballs (about 3-4 cm in diameter).

Step 4: Finalizing the soup

1. Once the vegetables are half cooked, carefully add the meatballs, allowing them to sink into the soup. They will cook quickly, so don't worry!
2. Let everything boil for 20 minutes. Check if the meatballs are cooked and the vegetables are tender. You can test one meatball to ensure it is cooked through.

Step 5: Final presentation

1. When the soup is ready, add the lovage and a bit of freshly chopped parsley for a touch of freshness.
2. Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings to your preference. If you like a slightly sour soup, you can also add a bit of lemon juice.

Serving

Serve the meatball soup warm, alongside a slice of fresh bread and, if desired, a spoonful of sour cream on top. Another delicious suggestion is to pair it with a spicy pepper or a cabbage salad for a crunchy contrast.

Tips and practical advice

- Meat: You can vary the type of meat used for the meatballs. A combination of chicken and pork will provide a different texture and a lighter flavor.
- Vegetables: Add other vegetables such as celery, zucchini, or even green beans to diversify the recipe.
- Spices: If you want a spicier note, you can add a pinch of paprika or hot pepper to the meatball mixture.
- Advance preparation: Meatball soup is even better the next day when the flavors have had time to blend. You can prepare it a day ahead and keep it in the fridge.

Nutritional benefits

This soup is rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals due to the vegetables and meat. It is a satisfying meal that will provide you with energy throughout the day. Additionally, the vegetable content helps maintain digestive health.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use beef or chicken?
Yes, a combination of beef and chicken is perfect for the meatballs. You can experiment with different types of meat.

2. Can meatball soup be frozen?
Yes, the soup can be frozen. Make sure to divide it into small portions and let it cool completely before putting it in the freezer.

3. What other recipes can I try?
In addition to this soup, you can try a raw vegetable salad or a simple dessert like a fruit compote. Also, a fresh lemonade or herbal tea can be an excellent choice to accompany the meal.

I invite you to try this meatball soup recipe! You will discover not only a delicious dish but also a wonderful way to create special moments with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!