Meatball soup

Meatball soup is a traditional dish that combines the rich flavors of vegetables with the juiciness of meat, bringing not just a savory taste to the table, but also a story filled with warmth and family memories. This recipe is perfect for cool days, providing comfort and satisfaction in every spoonful. Let's begin our culinary journey!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 800 g mixed minced meat (pork and beef)
- 4 medium onions (2 for the soup, 2 for the meatballs)
- 2 bell peppers (preferably one red and one green for a vibrant look)
- 1 large carrot
- 2 ripe tomatoes (or 200 g tomato paste)
- 1 celery root (about 100 g)
- 1 parsley root (about 100 g)
- 3 liters of water
- 500 ml bors (or to taste)
- 2 eggs (1 for meatballs, 1 for finishing)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Dried thyme (optional, but recommended)

Preparation:
1. Preparing the soup base: In a large pot, add 3 liters of water and bring it to a boil. Meanwhile, peel and finely chop 2 onions, the carrot, celery, and parsley. Add these vegetables to the boiling water along with the diced bell peppers. Be careful to chop the vegetables evenly to ensure even cooking.

2. Preparing the meatballs: In a large bowl, add the minced meat, the other 2 finely chopped onions, 1 egg, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix the ingredients well with your hands or a spatula until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. Form meatballs the size of a walnut, making sure they are compact so they do not fall apart during cooking.

3. Adding the meatballs to the soup: When the vegetables have boiled for about 15-20 minutes, carefully add the meatballs to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the hot liquid. Cook them for 10-15 minutes until they are cooked through and fluffy.

4. Finishing the soup: Once the meatballs are ready, add the tomato paste or diced tomatoes, and the bors. Let it boil for another 5-10 minutes to blend the flavors. Finally, beat the second egg with a little broth and incorporate it into the pot, stirring gently. Add salt and pepper to taste, and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top.

5. Serving: Meatball soup is delicious served hot, with a spoonful of sour cream on top, which adds a special creaminess. You can also add chili peppers for an extra kick. The soup pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or homemade bread.

Useful tips:
- Use quality minced meat, preferably a mix of pork and beef, for a richer taste.
- The soup can be varied with other vegetables, such as zucchini or green beans, depending on personal preferences.
- If you prefer a more sour soup, add more bors or even lemon juice.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
A serving of meatball soup contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It is a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals due to the fresh vegetables and meat. It also provides adequate hydration due to its water content.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use chicken for the meatballs?
Yes, chicken is a healthy and leaner alternative for meatballs.

- How can I store the soup?
Meatball soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can freeze it for later use, but it is recommended to add the bors after thawing.

Possible variations:
- You can add rice or quinoa to the meatball mixture for added texture.
- Experiment with different herbs, such as lovage or dill, to change the flavor of the soup.

Meatball soup is not just a simple dish, but a true treasure of the kitchen, full of flavor and memories. So, don't hesitate to prepare it and share it with your loved ones!