Meatball soup

Meatball Soup Recipe

Meatball soup is a cherished delicacy in traditional cuisine, a comforting soup filled with rich flavors and varied textures. This recipe perfectly combines tender meat with delicate rice and fresh vegetables, resulting in a dish that will warm your soul. Whether you prepare it for a family meal or a special occasion, your soup will surely become a favorite for everyone.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 300 g minced meat (a mix of pork and beef for a rich taste)
- 100 g rice (washed and drained)
- 1 large carrot (grated)
- 1 parsley root (grated)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 1 bell pepper (optional, for extra flavor)
- 2 eggs (one for the meatballs and one for thickening the soup)
- 200 g sour cream (for a creamy taste)
- Oil (for sautéing)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Fresh herbs (parsley or dill, for garnish)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by finely chopping the vegetables. Use a large grater to grate the carrot and parsley root. This method will allow the vegetables to cook evenly and integrate perfectly into the soup. In a large pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of oil and sauté the vegetables over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until they become lightly golden and fragrant.

2. Boiling the soup base: After the vegetables have been sautéed, add about 1.5 liters of water to the pot. Season with salt and pepper, then bring to a boil. This base will give the soup a deep and aromatic flavor, so don’t skip this step!

3. Preparing the meatballs: In a large bowl, mix the minced meat with the washed rice, one egg, salt, pepper, and finely chopped herbs. Use your hands to combine the ingredients until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. Form meatballs the size of golf balls. You can moisten your hands with water to prevent sticking.

4. Adding the meatballs to the soup: Once the water has started to boil, carefully add the meatballs one by one into the soup. They will float to the surface as they cook, and the broth will become richer in flavors. Let the soup boil for 20-25 minutes over medium heat.

5. Finishing the soup: In a small bowl, whisk an egg yolk with the sour cream. This technique will add a creamy texture and delicious taste to your soup. When the meatballs are ready, turn off the heat and add the yolk and sour cream mixture. Stir well to achieve a uniform consistency. Add the chopped fresh herbs for a touch of freshness.

6. Serving: Serve the meatball soup hot, in deep bowls, sprinkled with a little fresh herbs. You can add a few strands of boiled rice on top for an attractive appearance.

Practical tips:
- Meat: Choose quality meat, the mix of pork and beef offers a balanced taste. You can experiment with other types of meat, such as chicken or turkey, for a lighter version.
- Vegetables: Add vegetables like celery or zucchini to enrich the soup. These ingredients not only add nutrients but also flavor.
- Rice: Make sure to wash the rice well before adding it to the meatball mixture to remove excess starch.
- Variations: You can replace the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter option, and adding lemon juice at the end can provide an extra freshness.

Nutritional benefits:
Meatball soup is an excellent source of protein due to the meat and eggs, while the vegetables bring essential vitamins and minerals. A serving of soup provides energy and is low in calories, thanks to the vegetables and cooking method. It represents a good choice for a balanced meal.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned meat?: While possible, the taste will not be as fresh. It is recommended to use fresh meat.
- How can I store the soup?: You can store the soup in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze it for later consumption. Make sure to heat it well before serving.

With this meatball soup recipe, you will not only delight your family but also bring a touch of warmth and comfort to every bowl. Enjoy every bite and cherish the time spent cooking!