Meatball soup with cabbage broth

Meatball soup with cabbage juice – a delicacy with deep roots in culinary tradition, a recipe that perfectly blends flavors and textures. It is the favorite soup of many, being not only nourishing but also comforting, perfect for chilly days or to be enjoyed with family. In this recipe, you will discover how to transform simple ingredients into a warm and flavorful meal that will surely be appreciated by all your loved ones.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:

- 500 g minced pork (for a richer taste, you can mix it with beef)
- 100 g rice (washed and drained)
- 2 carrots (grated or diced)
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
- 2 potatoes (diced)
- 150 g noodles or pasta (optional, for added consistency)
- 500 ml cabbage juice (preferably fresh, but jarred is also good)
- 2-3 tablespoons tomato paste (for a more intense flavor, you can add more)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 bunch of fresh dill (finely chopped)
- 1 bunch of lovage (frozen or fresh)
- 1 egg (beaten, to form rags)

Preparation:

1. Start by preparing the soup base. In a large pot, add 1 liter of water and bring it to a boil. Add the finely chopped onion and carrots. Boil for about 10 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent.

2. In a separate bowl, combine the minced meat with the washed rice, salt, pepper, and chopped dill. Mix well until homogeneous. This is the moment when you can add a personal touch – for example, a teaspoon of sweet paprika for a richer taste.

3. Form the meatballs from the meat mixture. The size depends on personal preferences, but generally, golf ball-sized meatballs are ideal.

4. After the onion and carrot have boiled, add the meatballs to the pot. Make sure they are evenly distributed so they cook evenly. If the soup seems too thick, add water to your preference.

5. About halfway through the cooking time, add the diced potatoes. They will add consistency and a delicious taste to the soup.

6. Once the potatoes and meatballs are cooked, add the boiling cabbage juice. This step is essential for giving the soup its distinctive flavor. Then, add the tomato paste and mix well.

7. A few minutes before turning off the heat, add the noodles or pasta, salt, and pepper to taste. Here, you can experiment with different types of pasta – from fine to thicker ones, depending on your preferences.

8. In the last moments of cooking, take the beaten egg and, with a fork, pour it into the soup, stirring continuously to form delicious rags.

9. Once all the ingredients are well cooked, turn off the heat and add the chopped lovage. This will bring a fresh aroma and a splash of color.

10. Serve the soup hot, with a spoonful of yogurt or sour cream on top and, if desired, with finely chopped red onion for an extra crunch.

Practical tips:

- Use quality minced pork, preferably from a fresh cut of meat. This will significantly influence the final taste of the soup.
- The cabbage juice can be adjusted according to preferences – if you prefer it more sour, add more.
- The meatball soup can easily be adapted for vegans by replacing the meat with tofu or chopped vegetables, and the rice can be replaced with quinoa.
- You can also add other vegetables, such as celery or bell pepper, to diversify the flavors.

Nutritional benefits:

This meatball soup is not only delicious but also full of nutrients. Pork provides essential proteins, while vegetables like carrots and potatoes are rich in fiber and vitamins. The cabbage juice added at the end is an excellent source of probiotics, contributing to digestive health.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use minced chicken instead of pork?
Yes, chicken is a leaner alternative and can provide a just as tasty soup.

2. How can I make the soup spicier?
Add a few slices of hot pepper or a pinch of ground chili pepper to the meat mixture.

3. What are the best sides to accompany the soup?
Meatball soup pairs excellently with fresh bread or polenta.

4. Can this soup be frozen?
Yes, the soup can be frozen, but it is recommended not to add the pasta before freezing, as they may become mushy.

Variations:

For a unique touch, try adding a few fresh spinach leaves in the last minutes of cooking, or replace the rice with quinoa for a healthier option. You can also try various herbs, such as basil or oregano, to change the soup's flavor profile.

Meatball soup with cabbage juice is more than just a dish; it is a culinary experience that brings family and friends together around the table. Enjoy every spoonful, appreciate the flavors, and don't forget to share the recipe with your loved ones!