Meatball soup

Meatball Soup – A Traditional Recipe, Full of Flavors and Warmth

Meatball soup is among those dishes that bring a touch of nostalgia and comfort in every bowl. It is a meal that brings the family together at the table, a recipe with deep roots in traditional cuisine, which has been enhanced over time with various ingredients and techniques. This recipe is not only delicious but also an excellent source of nutrients, thanks to the fresh vegetables and meat. So, let’s explore together how to prepare a savory meatball soup that will impress every family member.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 6-8

Necessary ingredients:

For the soup:
- 3.5 liters of water
- 5 large carrots (or 7 medium)
- 2 slices of celery from a large celery
- 4 parsley roots
- 2 large onions
- A handful of bell pepper (about 100 g)
- 1 cup of rice (about 100 g)
- 1 tablespoon of white flour
- 2 eggs
- 700 g of minced meat (mix of beef and pork)
- 2 teaspoons of pepper
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 2 tablespoons of vegeta (or to taste)
- Garlic to taste (optional)
- Salt to taste
- 200 g of tomato paste (or 2-3 tablespoons of tomato paste)
- A handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream for serving (optional)

Preparing the vegetables:

1. Start by boiling the water in a large pot. Make sure to use a pot large enough, considering that we will add many vegetables and meatballs.

2. Meanwhile, peel and wash the vegetables. Carrots, parsley, and celery can be cut into cubes or slices, depending on preference. The onion can be finely chopped or left in halves, and the bell pepper can be cut into small cubes. If you want a more intense flavor, you can also add crushed garlic.

Preparing the meatballs:

3. In a large bowl, combine the minced meat, eggs, rice, flour, pepper, salt, and paprika. Knead the mixture well with your hands until you get a homogeneous composition. It is important to knead well so that the meatballs remain compact during boiling.

4. With wet hands (to prevent sticking), form small balls from the meat mixture, about the size of a walnut. Place them on a plate and continue until you finish all the mixture.

Boiling the soup:

5. Once the water has started to boil, add the chopped vegetables. Let them boil for about 10 minutes until they start to soften.

6. After the vegetables have boiled, carefully add the meatballs to the pot. It is essential to add them gently to avoid breaking apart. Stir gently to distribute them evenly in the soup.

7. Add vegeta (or your favorite spices) and let it boil over medium heat for 20 minutes. Here, the aroma of the soup will begin to reveal itself, and you will be delighted by the scents spreading in the kitchen.

8. After 20 minutes, add the tomato paste (or tomato paste) and mix well. Let the soup boil for another 5 minutes. At this point, it's time to check the taste and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.

9. Finally, turn off the heat and add the chopped green parsley, which will add a fresh and vibrant note to the dish.

Serving:

Meatball soup is served hot, often with a spoonful of sour cream on top, which will add delicious creaminess. A slice of fresh bread or polenta on the side is perfect to complement this comforting dish.

Suggestions and variations:

Meatball soup is extremely versatile. You can experiment with different types of meat (chicken, turkey, or even vegetarian with mushrooms and vegetables) or add other vegetables, such as zucchini or green beans. Additionally, if you want a spicier version, add some chili flakes for an extra kick.

Nutritional information:

A serving of meatball soup (about 300 ml) has approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the type of meat used and the amount of sour cream added. It is a good source of protein, vitamins, and essential minerals, thanks to the vegetables and meat.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can meatballs be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze raw meatballs to use later. Make sure to place them on a tray and freeze before putting them in a freezer bag.

2. How can I make the soup more sour?
To make the soup more sour, you can add lemon juice or vinegar at the end, to taste.

3. Can I use brown rice?
Yes, brown rice is a healthy option, but it will require a longer boiling time. Make sure to cook it before adding it to the meatball mixture.

4. What drinks pair well with meatball soup?
A warm soup pairs excellently with a dry white wine or a fresh lemonade, which will balance the flavors.

In conclusion, meatball soup is more than just a simple recipe; it is a culinary experience that will bring joy and warmth to the hearts of your loved ones. Experiment, adapt, and transform this classic recipe into the perfect version for your tastes!