Meatball soup (pork) with potatoes

Meatball Soup with Potatoes - A Tasty and Comforting Recipe

Meatball soup is one of those dishes that reminds us of the abundant meals at home, the moments spent with loved ones, and the flavors that weave our memories. This meatball soup recipe with potatoes is a variant I prefer, due to its nourishing texture and rich taste.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 1 liter of borscht
- 2 ripe tomatoes
- 1 medium carrot
- 2-3 potatoes (approximately 300-400 g)
- 1 small zucchini
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red for an extra touch of color)
- 2 white onions
- 1 celery root
- 1 parsnip
- 2 green onions
- 200 ml of tomato puree or tomato juice
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 bunch of lovage
- 1 bunch of lamb's quarters (optional)
- Meatballs:
- 500 g ground pork
- 2 eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Start by preparing the vegetables. Wash the carrot, celery, parsnip, and zucchini. Peel the onions and chop them finely, while the other vegetables should be cut into small cubes. These will add texture and the specific flavor to the soup.

2. In a large pot, bring 1.5 liters of water to a boil. Add the chopped vegetables (carrot, celery, parsnip, and bell pepper) and let them boil over medium heat for 20-30 minutes. This process will extract all the flavors from the vegetables, creating a delicious base for the soup.

3. Meanwhile, peel and cut the potatoes into cubes. After the vegetables have boiled, add the diced potatoes and continue to simmer over low heat until they become soft, about 15-20 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

4. When the potatoes are ready, season the soup with salt to taste and add the borscht and tomato puree or juice. Let it come to a boil and let the flavors combine for a few minutes.

5. In the meantime, prepare the meatballs. In a bowl, mix the ground meat with the two eggs, salt, and pepper. Shape the meatballs to your desired size. These will add an essential ingredient to the soup, providing a rich and savory texture.

6. Add the meatballs to the soup, stirring gently to avoid breaking them. Let them boil for 15-20 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked. You will notice a foam forming on top, which you can remove with a skimmer.

7. In the last minutes of cooking, add the zucchini and chopped green onions. These will add a touch of freshness and vitality to the soup. Don't forget to taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

8. When the soup is ready, turn off the heat and add the chopped fresh herbs (parsley, lovage, and lamb's quarters). These will enhance the flavor and give a vibrant appearance to the dish.

Practical tip: If you want to achieve a more sour soup, you can add more borscht or use lemon juice when serving. Also, the meatballs can be prepared in advance and frozen, so you always have a ready-made ingredient on hand.

Serving:
Meatball soup with potatoes is served hot, with a spoonful of sour cream on top and sprinkled with fresh herbs. It pairs perfectly with a slice of homemade, crusty bread to soak up the rich flavors of the soup.

Nutritional benefits:
This soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. The pork provides essential protein, while the vegetables are a rich source of vitamins and minerals. The borscht adds probiotics, which contribute to digestive health. A serving of meatball soup contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Possible variations:
Meatball soup can be adapted according to personal preferences. You can use chicken or beef, or even try a vegetarian version with lentil meatballs. Adding spices like cayenne pepper or chili can enhance the soup's intensity.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I replace the borscht with something else?
Yes, you can use lemon juice or wine vinegar to achieve a similar acidity.

2. How can I make the soup thicker?
If you prefer a thicker soup, add a potato puree or a little flour diluted in water.

3. How long can I keep the soup in the refrigerator?
The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can freeze it for later consumption, but avoid freezing the meatballs.

4. What other recipes or drinks can it be paired with?
This meatball soup pairs perfectly with a cheese platter or fresh salads. A cold drink, such as a fruit compote, can complement the meal.

Meatball soup with potatoes is not just a recipe, but a family story, a savory tradition that brings us together. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones, I invite you to enjoy it with an open heart. Enjoy your meal!