Meatball soup

Meatball soup is a beloved traditional dish, full of flavor and comfort, that brings joy to any family's table. This recipe has its roots in the culinary culture of many nations, appreciated for its refined taste and nutritional benefits. It is a versatile dish, perfect for cool days, but also for any occasion when you want to delight your guests with a delicious meal. Moreover, meatball soup is an excellent choice to include fresh vegetables in your diet!

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

Ingredients:

- 1 medium onion
- 1 red bell pepper
- 3 carrots (preferably medium-sized)
- 1 parsley root
- 1 parsnip
- 1 small celery
- 500 g minced meat (pork, beef, or a mix)
- 1/2 cup rice
- 1 egg (optional, to bind the mixture)
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water (about 2 liters)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by finely chopping the onion and bell pepper. Wash and peel the vegetables, then cut the carrots, parsley root, parsnip, and celery into small cubes. A uniform approach to the size of the vegetables will ensure even cooking.

2. Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot, add a little olive oil and sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent. Add the bell pepper and continue to sauté for a few minutes until the vegetables become tender and release their flavors.

3. Add the other vegetables: Put the carrots, parsley root, parsnip, and celery in the pot, gently mixing to combine all the ingredients. Let them sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Add the water: After the vegetables are sautéed, add about 2 liters of water. Season with salt and pepper, then add half of the chopped dill. Let it boil over medium heat, covering the pot with a lid.

5. Preparing the meatballs: In a bowl, combine the minced meat with the rice, salt, pepper, and egg (if you choose to use it). Mix well until you get a homogeneous mixture. Cover the bowl and let it rest in the refrigerator while the soup boils.

6. Adding the potatoes and meatballs: After about 30-40 minutes, when the vegetables are almost cooked, peel and cut the potatoes into cubes and add them to the pot. Use a spoon to form meatballs from the meat mixture and carefully add them to the soup. Ensure that the meatballs are formed uniformly for even cooking.

7. Finishing the dish: Let the soup simmer over medium heat for another 30 minutes. Check the consistency of the meatballs and whether the vegetables are cooked. Finally, add the remaining chopped dill for extra flavor.

8. Serving: Meatball soup is served hot, with a spoonful of sour cream on top and, for those who love a touch of spice, you can add freshly chopped chili pepper. This combination will bring a pleasant contrast!

Serving suggestions:

Dreaming of a perfect lunch? Nothing compares to a slice of fresh homemade bread alongside meatball soup, which will absorb the delicious flavors of the broth. Additionally, a fresh green salad, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, will pair wonderfully with this comforting dish.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use chicken instead of pork? Absolutely! Meatball soup with chicken is just as delicious and will bring a lighter note to the dish.

- How can I make the soup spicier? Add a pinch of hot paprika or chili flakes during cooking to intensify the flavor.

Nutritional information:

Meatball soup is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and fiber. A serving provides approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the type of meat used. It is rich in vegetables, contributing to a healthy intake of essential nutrients, while the rice adds complex carbohydrates, providing energy.

Possible variations:

If you want to experiment, you can add other vegetables, such as zucchini or green beans, depending on the season and availability. Additionally, you can replace the rice with quinoa or bulgur for a healthier option.

Meatball soup is more than just a simple dish – it is a recipe with soul that brings together families and friends. So don't hesitate to start cooking and put your personal touch on this classic recipe! Bon appétit!