Meatball soup

Meatball soup is one of those beloved recipes that reminds us of warm and joyful family Sunday meals. Its inviting aroma and rich texture make it perfect for any occasion, and today we will explore each step of preparing this delicious soup. Get ready to discover a simple and quick recipe that will surely become everyone's favorite!

Necessary ingredients:
- 3 medium onions
- 1 zucchini
- 200 g celery
- 2 bell peppers (1 red and 1 green)
- 4 carrots
- 500 g minced meat (pork, beef, or a mix)
- 100 g rice
- 1 egg
- 3 tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 100 g peas
- 100 g green beans
- 100 g finely chopped cabbage
- Fresh lovage
- 1 packet of Knorr Magic Borscht with vegetables
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation time:
- Active time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour
- Servings: 6

Step 1: Preparing the vegetables
Start by peeling and washing all the vegetables well. Dice the onion, carrots, celery, zucchini, and bell peppers. These vegetables will form the base of our soup, bringing a fresh and aromatic taste. Make sure the vegetables are cut evenly for uniform cooking.

Step 2: Boiling the vegetables
In a large 6-liter pot, add the chopped vegetables and fill with water. Place it on the heat and let it boil. It is important not to add the tomatoes just yet, as they will be added later to preserve their fresh flavor. Let the vegetables boil until they become slightly soft (about 10-15 minutes).

Step 3: Adding the tomatoes
Once the vegetables are half-cooked, dice the tomatoes and add them to the pot. The tomatoes will bring a pleasant acidity and vibrant color to the soup, making it even more appealing.

Step 4: Preparing the meatball mixture
In a separate bowl, mix the minced meat with the rice, one raw egg, salt, and pepper. Add some chopped herbs (lovage or parsley) for extra flavor. This mixture will form the meatballs that will enrich the soup with a delicious texture.

Step 5: Forming the meatballs
Wet your hands with water or oil to prevent sticking. Form small balls from the meat mixture, ensuring they are of uniform size so they cook evenly in the soup.

Step 6: Adding the meatballs to the soup
Once the meatballs are ready, carefully add them to the boiling soup. They will add a rich flavor and healthy protein to the dish. Let them boil for about 20 minutes, during which the meatballs will cook completely.

Step 7: Adding borscht and other ingredients
After 20 minutes, add the packet of Knorr Magic Borscht with vegetables. This ingredient will intensify the flavor of the soup and give it a distinct note of acidity. Let it boil for another 5 minutes to incorporate the flavors well.

Step 8: Finalizing the soup
After you turn off the heat, finely chop the remaining herbs and sprinkle them on top of the soup. The fresh herbs add a splash of color and freshness to the dish.

Serving suggestions:
Meatball soup is served hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta. A dollop of sour cream can add creaminess and flavor. Additionally, a squeeze of lemon juice can enhance the soup's flavors.

Tips and variations:
To customize the recipe, you can add other vegetables, such as potatoes or corn. You can also experiment with different types of minced meat (chicken, turkey, or even vegetarian). If you want a spicier soup, add a bit of chili or spices like paprika.

Nutritional information:
A serving of meatball soup has approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the type of meat used. It is an excellent source of protein, fiber, and vitamins, thanks to the fresh vegetables. This soup not only satisfies hunger but also contributes to a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen meat?
- Yes, make sure to completely thaw it before using it in the recipe.

2. Can I replace the rice with another ingredient?
- Yes, you can use quinoa or even small pasta for a different variant.

3. How can I store the soup if there are leftovers?
- You can keep it in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze it for later consumption.

Meatball soup is more than just a dish; it is a recipe that brings family and friends together, offering moments of joy and warmth. So, don’t hesitate to make it and enjoy every spoonful!