Meatball soup

Meatball Soup

Meatball soup is a traditional dish, full of flavors and warmth, perfect for chilly days or for moments when we want to indulge in a hearty and nourishing meal. This recipe not only reminds us of family gatherings but is also an excellent way to incorporate fresh vegetables and meat in a delicious way. Here’s how you can enjoy this delightful soup, step by step.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:

For the soup:
- 2 liters of water
- 1 small celery
- 1 carrot
- 2 onions
- 1 can (450 g) of tomatoes in their juice
- 1/4 bunch of chopped parsley
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste

For the meatballs:
- 350 g minced meat (pork or a mix of pork and beef)
- 2 tablespoons rice
- 1 thin slice of bread soaked in water
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 bunch of chopped parsley
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 500 ml bors (optional, for a sour taste)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by bringing a large pot with 2 liters of water to a boil over high heat. Meanwhile, peel the celery, carrot, and onions. Cut the vegetables into small cubes for even cooking. Once the water starts to boil, add the vegetables to the pot. Let it boil for about 10 minutes, or until they begin to soften.

2. Preparing the meatballs: While the vegetables are boiling, prepare the meatballs. Soak the slice of bread in water for a few minutes, then crumble it well. In a bowl, combine the minced meat, rice, finely chopped onion, 1/4 of the chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Add the crumbled bread and mix well, using your hands to achieve a homogeneous mixture.

3. Shaping the meatballs: Wet your hands with a little water to prevent the mixture from sticking. Form balls about 3-4 cm in diameter. They will increase in size while boiling, so do not make the meatballs too large.

4. Adding the meatballs to the soup: Once the vegetables are nearly cooked, carefully add the meatballs to the pot. Reduce the heat to low and let them simmer in the soup for 15-20 minutes, until the meatballs are fully cooked.

5. Finishing the soup: When the meatballs are cooked, add the bors (if using) and the remaining chopped parsley. Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as desired. Let it boil for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

6. Serving: Turn off the heat and let the soup cool slightly. Serve the meatball soup warm, with a slice of fresh bread on the side or with sour cream, if desired.

Helpful tips:

- Choosing the meat: Use the freshest meat possible. A combination of pork and beef will add a special taste and texture to the meatballs.
- Varied vegetables: You can replace the vegetables with your favorites, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to customize the recipe.
- The bors: If you want a more tangy soup, the bors is optional, but it gives an unmistakable taste. If you don’t have bors, lemon juice or vinegar can be excellent alternatives.
- The filling's taste: Experiment with spices. Adding garlic or other herbs can further enrich the flavor of the meatballs.

Nutritional benefits:

Meatball soup is an excellent source of protein due to the minced meat and rice. Additionally, fresh vegetables contribute essential vitamins and minerals. This soup is a healthy choice, providing hydration and nutrients while being low in calories, especially if you use lean meat.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I freeze meatball soup? Yes, the soup can be frozen. Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in airtight containers for freezing.
2. How can I make the soup spicier? Adding chili peppers or paprika can provide an extra kick.
3. Can I make the meatballs with chicken or turkey? Absolutely! These types of meat will offer a lighter yet equally delicious option.

Delicious combinations:

Meatball soup pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or polenta. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine or a cold beer can wonderfully complement the meal.

A personal note:

This meatball soup recipe reminds me of my childhood, of the moments spent in my grandmother's kitchen, where the aroma of the soup filled my home and heart. I love to add a sprinkle of love to each serving and share this soup with my loved ones. Experiment, customize, and transform this recipe into your own masterpiece!

Now that you have all the details, all that’s left is to put your cooking sketch into action. Enjoy every spoonful of the meatball soup!