Meatball soup

Meatball Soup – a classic recipe, full of flavors and comfort

Meatball soup is a traditional dish, loved by many and often associated with family moments or colder days when a warm and nourishing soup is just what we need. This recipe is not only delicious but also rich in nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a balanced meal. Whether you are an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you step by step to achieve the perfect meatball soup.

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

Ingredients:
- 350 g minced meat (pork, beef, or a combination)
- 4 liters of water
- 1 medium onion
- 100 g rice (preferably long-grain)
- 1 carrot
- 1 parsley root
- 1 parsnip root
- 1 raw egg
- 2 tablespoons of oil
- half a celery
- salt, peppercorns, sweet paprika, ground pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons of pepper paste
- 2 tablespoons of magic vegetable borscht
- fresh, chopped lovage
- a pinch of hot pepper (optional)
- flour, for shaping the meatballs

Preparing the ingredients:
Start by washing and peeling all the vegetables. This is an essential step to ensure that your food will have a fresh and clean taste. Cut the carrot, parsley, parsnip, and celery into small cubes, and chop the onion finely. If you want to make your work easier, you can use a food processor to chop the vegetables quickly.

Step 1: Boil the vegetables
In a large pot, add the 4 liters of water and bring it to a boil. Once the water has started to boil, add the chopped vegetables (carrot, parsley, parsnip, and celery) and the 3 peppercorns. Let them boil over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes until they become soft.

Step 2: Prepare the meatball mixture
Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine the minced meat. Add the egg, washed and selected rice, salt, ground pepper, paprika, and sautéed onion (which you can prepare beforehand by sautéing the onion in a little oil until it becomes translucent). Mix all the ingredients well until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. It is essential to ensure that all ingredients are well integrated to obtain tasty meatballs.

Step 3: Shape the meatballs
Now it’s time to shape the meatballs! Wet your hands with a little water or oil and take a portion of the meat mixture, shaping it into balls of the desired size. You can make smaller meatballs for an elegant presentation or larger ones for a hearty meal. If you want a fluffier texture, make sure not to pack them too tightly.

Step 4: Add the meatballs to the soup
Once the vegetables are cooked, carefully add the meatballs to the pot with the soup. Also, add the pepper paste and the hot pepper, if you choose to use it. The soup is ready when the meatballs rise to the surface, a sign that they are fully cooked. This moment will surely be one of satisfaction!

Step 5: Finish the soup
For an extra flavor, add 2 tablespoons of magic vegetable borscht and let the soup boil for another 5 minutes. This will intensify the flavors and provide a welcome tang. Finally, sprinkle the fresh chopped lovage and add a pinch of oil for a refined taste.

Serving suggestions:
Meatball soup is delicious served hot, alongside a slice of homemade bread or polenta. You can also add a spoonful of sour cream on top for an extra creaminess. If you want to treat your guests, you can accompany it with a fresh white wine or a herbal tea.

Possible variations:
For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the meat with chopped mushrooms and use whole grain rice or quinoa. You can also experiment with different spices, such as cumin or coriander, to give your soup a unique flavor.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
A serving of meatball soup (approximately 300 ml) contains about 250-300 calories, depending on the type of meat used and the amount of oil added. The soup is rich in protein, thanks to the meat and egg, and contains plenty of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. It is an excellent choice for a balanced meal, providing essential nutrients and energy.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use chicken for the meatballs?
Yes, chicken is an excellent choice and makes the meatballs lighter. Make sure to use quality minced meat.

2. How can I store the meatball soup for later consumption?
The soup keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days. You can freeze it for a longer period, but it is recommended to consume it fresh to preserve its flavors.

3. Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! You can experiment with vegetables like zucchini, green beans, or even potatoes, depending on your preferences.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it’s time to start cooking! Meatball soup will surely become a favorite in your home, bringing not only flavor but also wonderful moments to share with loved ones. Enjoy your meal!