Meatball soup

Meatball Soup – A warm hug in every bowl

Meatball soup is a comforting dish that has crossed generations, bringing smiles to the faces of those who savor it. This traditional recipe combines the rich flavors of fresh vegetables with the tenderness of minced meat, resulting in a savory soup that offers not just nourishment, but also a true culinary experience. Preparing this soup is a family ritual, where each ingredient plays its special role, and the result is a perfect meal for any occasion.

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Number of Servings: 6

Ingredients:

- For the soup:
- 400 g minced meat (pork, beef, or a mix)
- 2 medium onions
- 3 large potatoes
- 2 carrots
- 1 red bell pepper
- 100 g rice (about 1/2 cup)
- 1-2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- juice of one lemon
- 2 eggs
- salt and pepper, to taste
- fresh herbs (parsley, dill) for garnish

- For serving:
- sour cream (optional)

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the Ingredients:
Start by washing and peeling the vegetables. Chop the onion finely, and dice the carrots, potatoes, and bell pepper into small cubes. This fine chopping will allow the vegetables to cook evenly and integrate perfectly into the soup.

2. Boiling the Vegetables:
In a large pot, add 2 liters of water and a pinch of salt. Place the pot over medium heat. When the water starts to boil, add the onion and carrots, letting them boil for about 10 minutes. This step is essential to bring the flavors of the vegetables to life.

3. Preparing the Meatballs:
In a large bowl, combine the minced meat with the remaining onion (finely chopped), rice, one egg, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix the ingredients well so that all the flavors blend. It is important to form the meatballs with wet hands to prevent sticking.

4. Adding the Remaining Vegetables:
After 10 minutes, add the potatoes and bell pepper to the pot. Continue to boil for another 10 minutes. The vegetables will add a sweet flavor and pleasant texture to the soup.

5. Forming and Boiling the Meatballs:
With wet hands, form small balls from the meat mixture and carefully add them to the pot with the soup. They will float and cook quickly, absorbing the rich flavors from the broth. Let them boil for 20 minutes.

6. Finalizing the Soup:
Once the meatballs are cooked, add the tomato paste and lemon juice. These ingredients will give the soup a fresh and tangy note, perfect for balancing the richness of the meat. Let it boil for another 5 minutes.

7. Preparing the Egg:
In a small bowl, beat the second egg and gradually add it to the soup while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. This step will give the soup a creamier consistency and an attractive appearance.

8. Serving:
Turn off the heat and add the chopped fresh herbs. This will not only enrich the flavor of the soup but also add a fresh look. Serve the soup hot, with a spoonful of sour cream on top for added creaminess.

Practical Tips:

- Choosing the Meat: You can use minced beef, pork, or a mix between the two. Pork provides a richer flavor, while beef is leaner.
- The Rice: Washing the rice before use will help remove the starch and prevent the meatballs from sticking.
- Herbs: Depending on your preferences, you can also add other herbs like basil or thyme to intensify the flavor of the soup.
- Variations: You can add other vegetables, such as celery or zucchini, to diversify the recipe. Also, instead of tomato paste, you can use chopped fresh tomatoes.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

- Calories: Approximately 250 kcal
- Protein: 18 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 3 g

Meatball soup is not only a hearty meal but also a good source of vitamins from vegetables and protein from meat. It is ideal for cool days and can be an excellent main course for a family gathering.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can I use chicken meat? Yes, minced chicken is an excellent choice and will give the soup a slightly milder flavor.
- How can I store the soup? It can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and the flavor will intensify as it rests.
- What drinks pair well? A warm meatball soup pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or fresh lemonade.

Now that you have all the necessary information, you are ready to start cooking! Experiment with this meatball soup recipe and turn it into a family tradition, learning and adapting it to your taste. Enjoy your meal!