Meatball soup

Meatball Soup – A Recipe from the Heart

Meatball soup is a delicacy that brings back memories of childhood, family meals, and the aromas that fill our hearts with warmth. This classic recipe is not only nourishing but also extremely versatile, allowing for adaptations based on personal preferences. In this guide, I will walk you step by step through the preparation of this delicious soup, ensuring you achieve a perfect result every time. I will also provide you with some useful tips and information about the ingredients, making your time in the kitchen a pleasure.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 6

Necessary ingredients:

- 500 g minced chicken
- 2 small onions, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 3 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 parsley roots, peeled and diced
- 2 eggs (one for the meatballs and one to enrich the soup)
- 200 g rice
- 200 g sour cream
- Freshly chopped green lovage
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- Oil for sautéing

A bit of history

Meatball soup is a traditional dish in many cultures, known by various names and variations. This recipe has stood the test of time, loved for its comforting taste and accessible ingredients. Every housewife has her secret, adding a special ingredient or a unique technique that makes it one of a kind. Simple ingredients transform into a dish full of flavors, combining quality and comfort sensations.

Preparing the meatballs

1. Start by preparing the rice. Rinse the rice well under cold water to remove excess starch. This step is essential to prevent it from sticking during cooking.

2. In a pan, add a little oil and sauté the finely chopped onion, stirring constantly. Add the sweet paprika and let the onion soften and turn slightly golden, about 5 minutes. This process will add excellent flavor to your soup.

3. Add the rinsed rice over the onion and pour in a few milliliters of water. Cover the pan and let it simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The rice should not be fully cooked, as it will continue cooking with the meatballs.

4. After boiling, remove the pan from the heat and let the mixture cool. This step is important to avoid prematurely cooking the egg.

5. In a large bowl, combine the minced chicken with the egg, salt, and pepper. Add the rice and onion mixture to the meat and mix well with your hands to integrate all the ingredients. Shape the meatballs to your desired size. If you want to make them smaller, you can call them "cousins" like you did when you were a child.

Cooking the soup

6. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the diced vegetables (carrots and parsley). Let them boil for 10 minutes until they start to soften.

7. When the vegetables are almost cooked, carefully add the meatballs to the pot. They will cook in the broth, absorbing the flavors from the vegetables. Simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes until the meatballs are cooked, but be sure to stir gently to avoid breaking them apart.

8. When the soup is ready, remove the pot from the heat. Add lemon salt to taste, crushed garlic (if you like), and the egg whites from the two eggs. This will add a light and frothy texture to your soup. Stir the soup well, allowing the egg whites to incorporate.

9. The yolks, mixed with sour cream, will be added at the end when the soup has cooled slightly. This step will prevent the sour cream from curdling and will provide a special creaminess to your soup. Add the finely chopped lovage for an extra touch of freshness.

Serving

Meatball soup is served hot, with a slice of fresh bread on the side or with polenta. You can also add a drizzle of sour cream on top and a garnish of lovage to enhance its appearance and aroma. It is an ideal dish for cool days but can be enjoyed at any time of the year.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use pork or beef instead of chicken?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe with any type of meat you prefer, but keep in mind that the cooking time may change.

2. How can I make the soup spicier?
Add a little chili pepper or spicy seasonings during cooking, to taste.

3. What additional vegetables can I use?
You can add zucchini, green beans, or even potatoes, depending on your preferences.

4. How can I store the soup?
Meatball soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can freeze individual portions to enjoy later.

Nutritional benefits

Meatball soup is an excellent source of protein due to the chicken, while the vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals. A serving of soup contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It is a hearty yet light dish, perfect for lunch or dinner.

Tips for a perfect result

- Make sure all ingredients are fresh to achieve the best flavors.
- Use a large pot to allow the meatballs to cook evenly.
- Don’t forget to taste the soup before adding lemon salt; this can vary depending on the acidity of the lemon.

Customized version

If you want to add a touch of originality, you can add herbs like thyme or dill to the meat mixture, or experiment with different types of rice, such as basmati or whole grain.

Meatball soup is not just a cooking recipe but an experience that connects you with culinary traditions and the beautiful moments spent with loved ones. Savor every spoonful and don’t forget to share this recipe with your loved ones! Enjoy your meal!