Meatball soup

Meatball soup: a comforting and flavorful delicacy, perfect for family meals. This recipe not only combines simple ingredients but also cherished memories associated with moments spent around the table. Whether you're a beginner cook or an experienced enthusiast, meatball soup is an excellent choice, easy to prepare and full of taste.

Total preparation time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients

For the soup:
- 2.5 l water
- 2 carrots
- 1 parsnip
- 1 red bell pepper
- 2 onions
- A handful of chopped parsley
- A handful of chopped lovage
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons red pepper paste
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- A little oil for sautéing

For the meatballs (about 40 pieces):
- 250 g minced pork
- 250 g beef
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley
- 2 heaping tablespoons rice

Instructions

1. Preparing the vegetables
Start by washing the vegetables. This is an essential step to remove any impurities. Chop the carrots, parsnip, bell pepper, and onion finely. Use a sharp knife to make even cuts – this will help the vegetables cook evenly.

2. Sautéing the vegetables
In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the carrots, parsnip, and bell pepper. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow them to release their flavors.

3. Boiling the vegetables
Once the vegetables are sautéed, add the warm water. Cover the pot with a lid and let it boil for 15-20 minutes over medium heat. This step will form the flavorful base for the soup.

4. Preparing the meatballs
Meanwhile, it's time to prepare the meatballs. In a large bowl, mix the pork with the beef. Add salt, pepper, the egg, breadcrumbs, finely chopped parsley, and rice. Use your hands to combine all the ingredients, ensuring everything is well incorporated. If you prefer a finer texture, you can use a food processor.

5. Shaping the meatballs
To shape the meatballs, fill a plate with cold water. Wet your hands in the water to prevent the mixture from sticking. Take a portion of the meat mixture and form balls the size of a walnut. Continue doing this until you finish all the mixture.

6. Adding the meatballs to the soup
When the vegetables are cooked, carefully add the meatballs to the pot. Boil the soup for about 30 minutes. They will cook gently, and their flavor will blend perfectly with the vegetables.

7. Finalizing the soup
After 30 minutes, add the red pepper paste and tomato paste. These ingredients will give the soup a vibrant color and rich flavor. Let it boil for another 10 minutes, then turn off the heat. Add the chopped parsley and lovage, stirring gently to distribute evenly.

8. Serving and enjoyment
Let the soup cool slightly before serving. You can garnish it with fresh lovage leaves for a special touch. Meatball soup is delicious served with fresh bread and a splash of sour cream, as well as with hot peppers for those who prefer a spicier taste.

Practical tips

- Meat choices: You can experiment with different types of meat, such as chicken or turkey for a lighter version of the meatballs.
- Vegetables: Add other vegetables to your liking: celery or zucchini can provide additional flavor to the soup.
- Rice: If you don't have rice, you can use quinoa or even bulgur for a healthier option.
- Variations: You can enrich the soup with green beans or peas for a crunchy texture.

Nutritional benefits

Meatball soup is not only tasty but also nutritious. The beef and pork provide essential proteins, while the vegetables bring necessary vitamins and minerals for a healthy lifestyle. Additionally, parsley and lovage are rich in antioxidants, contributing to a strong immune system.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I freeze the meatball soup?
Yes, the soup can be frozen in small portions. Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in freezer containers.

2. Can I make the soup more sour?
Sure! You can add lemon juice or white wine vinegar to give it a more sour taste.

3. What other recipes can I try with the same ingredients?
If you like meatballs, you can also try a meatball stew or a rice pilaf with meatballs, which will bring a different vibe to your meal.

Meatball soup is a true symbol of comfort food, bringing together the flavors, colors, and traditions of our cuisine. I invite you to prepare it and enjoy every bite!