Meatball soup

Meatball Soup - A Family Delicacy

Meatball soup is a traditional dish that evokes pleasant childhood memories. This recipe combines the flavors of fresh vegetables with the tenderness of meatballs, providing a nourishing and comforting meal. Perfect for a chilly day or as a comforting lunch, this soup will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Let’s see together how we can prepare this delicacy!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 80 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:
- 500 g minced meat (a combination of pork and beef is ideal)
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 large onion
- 1 bunch of green onions
- 1 large carrot
- 2 medium potatoes
- 1 sprig of fresh lovage
- 1 sprig of dried thyme
- 250 ml borscht (or to taste)
- 1.5 liters of water

Step-by-Step Preparation:

1. Preparing the Vegetables
Start by cleaning and washing the vegetables thoroughly. Cut the potatoes and carrot into small cubes, and the onion into very small pieces. Slice the green onions into thin rounds. These vegetables will provide a rich flavor to your soup. Make sure you have everything ready before you start cooking.

2. Boiling the Vegetables
In a large pot, add the 1.5 liters of water and bring the chopped vegetables to a boil. Add the sprigs of dried thyme and lovage. These herbs will infuse the soup with wonderful aromas. Let the vegetables simmer over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, until they become slightly soft.

3. Preparing the Meatballs
In a large bowl, mix the minced meat with the egg, breadcrumbs, flour, and finely chopped dill. Add salt and pepper to taste. It is important to use fresh meat, preferably from a butcher, to achieve juicy meatballs. Wet your hands with water to form the meatballs, so they do not stick. Shape them into walnut-sized balls and add them to the soup.

4. Finishing the Soup
After adding the meatballs to the pot, let the soup simmer until they are cooked, about 10-15 minutes. Then, add the borscht and let it boil for another 20-30 minutes. The borscht will add a pleasant acidity, balancing the flavors. You can adjust the amount of borscht according to your preferences.

5. Serving
When the soup is ready, remove the sprigs of thyme and lovage. Finally, you can sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness. I recommend serving the soup with fresh green onions, which add an interesting contrast. It can be accompanied by a slice of fresh bread or polenta to complete this delicious meal.

Practical Tips:
- Maintain texture: Ensure that the meatballs are not too large so that they cook evenly and do not crumble in the soup.
- Vegetarian option: You can replace the meat with a combination of chopped vegetables and rice for a delicious vegetarian version.
- More intense flavor: If you want a more intense flavor, you can add a few drops of lemon juice or a teaspoon of tomato paste before adding the borscht.

Nutritional Benefits:
This meatball soup is rich in protein due to the meat and egg, while the vegetables provide a considerable amount of vitamins and minerals. It also contains fiber from the vegetables, which is essential for healthy digestion. The calories per serving are approximately 250-300, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use chicken meat? Yes, chicken meat is an excellent choice and will provide a lighter flavor.
- How long can I keep the soup? The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It can be frozen for later consumption, but it is recommended to add the borscht when reheating.
- What side dishes go well? Besides green onions, you can serve the soup with sour cream or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.

Meatball soup is not just a meal, but a true culinary experience that brings people together. Whether you prepare it for a family meal or to impress friends, this recipe will surely be appreciated. So, gather your ingredients and let’s cook! Enjoy your meal!