Meatball soup

Meatball soup is one of those classic recipes that reminds us of warm family meals, moments spent together, and the kindness of grandparents. It is a soup full of flavors, with plenty of fresh vegetables and juicy meatballs, which can be enjoyed with or without sour cream, depending on your preference. This recipe is not only simple but also extremely satisfying, offering a delicious combination of ingredients that will warm you on cold days. Let’s discover together how we can prepare this delicacy step by step!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Necessary ingredients:
- 2 carrots
- 1 celery (about 200 g)
- 1 medium onion
- 300 g minced meat (pork, beef, or a mix)
- 1 egg
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 liter of borscht (or to preference)
- 50 ml of oil
- 500 ml of vegetable broth (or water, if needed)

Let’s start with some useful tips about the ingredients. Choose fresh, quality meat to get juicy meatballs. You can use pork, beef, or a mix, depending on your preferences. The vegetables should be fresh, and the parsley should be green and beautiful. This will add extra flavor and color to your soup.

Here’s how to prepare meatball soup in a few simple steps:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by peeling the carrots and celery. Grate the carrot or cut it into small cubes. You can grate the celery or slice it. Chop the onion finely, and I recommend lightly frying it in a bit of oil to enhance its flavor.

2. Boiling the vegetables: In a large pot, bring 3-4 liters of water to a boil. Add the prepared vegetables (carrot, celery, and fried onion). Let them boil over medium heat for about 20 minutes, until they become soft.

3. Preparing the meatballs: In a bowl, add the minced meat, egg, thyme, salt, and pepper to taste, along with 2-3 tablespoons of chopped parsley. Mix all the ingredients well. A technique I learned from my grandmother is to oil your hands slightly before forming the meatballs. This way, they won’t stick to your hands and will remain beautiful.

4. Forming the meatballs: From the meat mixture, form medium-sized meatballs, about 2-3 cm, and carefully add them to the pot with the boiled vegetables. Let them boil for 15-20 minutes, until they rise to the surface, which means they are ready.

5. Adding the borscht: Boil the borscht separately in another pot. Once it has boiled, add it to the pot with the soup. Let it boil for a few minutes to blend the flavors.

6. Finalizing the soup: When the soup is almost ready, add the remaining chopped parsley. This will give a fresh touch and improve the appearance of the soup. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.

7. Serving: Meatball soup is served hot, either plain or with a generous spoonful of sour cream on top. You can also add some croutons or fresh bread next to the plate.

Nutritional benefits:
Meatball soup is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, thanks to the fresh vegetables used. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, and celery provides fiber, thus contributing to healthy digestion. Additionally, the meat provides essential nutrients, and parsley is known for its antioxidant properties.

Possible variations:
To add a touch of originality, you can replace pork with chicken or turkey, and for a vegetarian option, you can use tofu or mushrooms. You can also experiment with various spices, such as marjoram or basil, to customize the flavor of your soup.

Personal tip: I recommend making more soup, as it keeps very well in the fridge and becomes even tastier the next day. You can also freeze portions so you always have a healthy meal on hand.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen meat for the meatballs?
Yes, just make sure to fully thaw it before using.
- Can meatball soup be made in advance?
Absolutely! The soup keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days or can be frozen.
- What other dishes pair well with meatball soup?
The soup pairs perfectly with a cabbage salad or a fruit tart for a light dessert.

Meatball soup is more than just a simple recipe; it is an experience full of nostalgia, warmth, and joy. So don’t hesitate any longer, gather the ingredients, and let’s cook together! You will discover not only a delicious dish but also the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones. Enjoy!