Meatball soup

Meatball Soup - a traditional recipe, full of flavor and warmth

Meatball soup is one of those recipes that reminds us of family meals and the times spent with loved ones. It is a comforting dish that combines the flavors of fresh vegetables with the tenderness of juicy meatballs. This recipe is perfect for cooler days when we want to warm both our body and soul. Let's discover together how to prepare this delicacy!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

The necessary ingredients for this recipe are as follows:

- 500 g minced meat (ideally a mix of pork and beef)
- 1 medium onion
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 potato
- 1 piece of celery (about 100 g)
- 2 carrots
- 300 g tomato sauce (preferably homemade or of good quality)
- 1 egg
- ½ cup of rice (about 100 g)
- a handful of fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon of dried dill
- 1 teaspoon of dried lovage
- salt and pepper to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil or sunflower oil (for cooking)

Preparing the meatball soup is a simple process, but it requires a bit of attention to detail. I will share with you the detailed steps and some tips to help you achieve the tastiest meatballs!

Step 1: Preparing the vegetables

Start by placing a large pot of water on the stove. While the water heats up, peel the vegetables: onion, red bell pepper, potato, celery, and carrots. Wash them well under running water and chop them finely. The onion and red bell pepper will add a sweet flavor, while the carrots and potatoes will contribute to the texture of the soup. The celery will give a distinct, pleasantly aromatic flavor.

Once the vegetables are chopped, add them to the pot of water along with a little salt and oil. The salt not only intensifies the flavors but also helps to coagulate the proteins in the meat. Let the vegetables simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes until they become slightly soft.

Step 2: Preparing the meatballs

In a large bowl, add the minced meat. It is important to use quality, well-ground meat for juicy meatballs. Add the egg, rice, salt, pepper, dried dill, and chopped fresh parsley. Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until the ingredients are well incorporated.

If you want fluffier meatballs, let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes. The rice will absorb some moisture, giving a more pleasant texture to the meatballs.

Form the meatballs with wet hands so that the mixture does not stick. Make balls the size of a walnut (about 2-3 cm in diameter) and set them aside on a plate.

Step 3: Boiling the meatballs

After the vegetables have boiled for 15 minutes, carefully add the meatballs to the pot, one by one. They will sink into the hot water and start to puff up. Let them boil on medium heat for about 15-20 minutes. It is important not to stir too much to avoid breaking the meatballs.

Step 4: Finishing the soup

When the meatballs are well cooked, add the tomato sauce, chopped fresh parsley, and dried lovage. These will add a note of acidity and flavor, balancing the rich taste of the soup. Let everything come to a boil for 5-10 minutes so that the flavors combine harmoniously.

When the soup is ready, check the taste and adjust with salt and pepper if necessary. Serve the soup hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta. A squeeze of fresh lemon on top can add a pleasant acidity that will brighten the dish.

Useful tips:

1. Variations of ingredients: You can add other vegetables, such as zucchini or peas, to diversify the recipe. You can also use chicken or turkey meat for a healthier option.

2. Tomato sauce: If you have time, making the tomato sauce at home from fresh tomatoes will add an unmistakable taste. The soup will thus become a true feast.

3. Fresh parsley: Adding fresh parsley not only improves the appearance of the soup but also brings a boost of vitamins.

Frequently asked questions:

1. How long can I keep the meatball soup? The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat it by adding a little water if it has thickened.
2. Can I freeze the soup? Yes, meatball soup can be frozen, but it is recommended not to freeze the meatballs before boiling them to maintain texture.
3. What side dish pairs best? Fresh bread or polenta make a perfect pair with meatball soup, providing a pleasant contrast of textures.

Nutritional benefits:

Meatball soup is an excellent source of protein due to the meat and rice. The vegetables add essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. It is also a relatively low-calorie dish, suitable for a balanced diet.

Whether you enjoy it with family or friends, meatball soup is a dish that brings joy and warmth to every home. Enjoy your meal!