Meatball soup with green celery and lovage

Meatball soup with green celery and lovage - a savory and comforting recipe

Cooking is an art that enriches not only our stomachs but also our souls. Meatball soup with green celery and lovage is a perfect example of a dish that brings together simple yet flavorful and nutritious ingredients. This soup is not just a meal; it is a true warm embrace, perfect for chilly days or moments when you feel the need for comfort.

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

Ingredients

- 500 g minced meat (chicken or beef, depending on your preference)
- 1 medium carrot
- 1 green celery (with leaves)
- 1 parsnip
- 1 large onion
- 1 parsley root
- 1 red bell pepper
- 4 juicy, ripe tomatoes
- 1 handful of rice
- 1 egg
- salt (to taste)
- 600 ml borscht (or more if you prefer a more sour soup)
- 2 liters of water

Preparation

1. Preparing the vegetables: Wash all the vegetables thoroughly under cold running water. Then, grate the carrot, parsnip, and parsley root on a fine grater. These vegetables will add natural sweetness to your soup. Dice the onion and bell pepper. This vegetable mix will bring a rich flavor and added texture.

2. Boiling the vegetables: In a large pot, add 2 liters of water and a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil over medium heat. When the water starts to boil, add the grated vegetables and the diced onion and bell pepper. Cover the pot with a lid and let the vegetables boil for about 10-15 minutes until they become tender.

3. Preparing the meatballs: In a large bowl, place the minced meat. Add a teaspoon of salt, the remaining vegetables from the earlier mix (set aside some for the soup), the rinsed rice, and the beaten egg. These ingredients will bind the meatballs and give them a fine texture. Finally, add breadcrumbs to achieve fluffy meatballs. Form small balls from the meat mixture and set them aside.

4. Cooking the meatballs: Once the vegetables in the pot are boiled, carefully add the meatballs, ensuring they do not stick together. When it reaches a boil, add the leaves of green celery and chopped lovage; this will enhance the soup's aroma. Taste the soup and adjust the salt if necessary.

5. Adding the borscht and tomatoes: After the meatballs have cooked for 10-15 minutes, add the borscht. If you prefer a more sour soup, you can add more borscht according to your taste. Prepare a paste from the tomatoes, either by grating or blending, and add them to the pot. Let the soup boil for another 5-10 minutes.

6. Finishing touches: Once the tomatoes are fully integrated, remove the soup from the heat and add a final sprinkle of fresh lovage and green celery. These herbs add a touch of freshness and color to the dish.

Chef's Tip

To intensify the soup's flavor, you can add half a teaspoon of sweet paprika. Additionally, apple cider vinegar or lemon juice can replace the borscht, providing a pleasant acidity.

Nutritional Benefits

This soup is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Chicken or beef provides essential proteins, while the vegetables are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and nutrients. Green celery and lovage are known for their anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of meat?
Of course! You can replace chicken with pork or beef, depending on your preferences.

How can I make the soup even more filling?
Add a handful of green beans or diced potatoes for extra volume and nutrients.

What is the best way to store the soup?
The soup keeps well in the fridge in airtight containers for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for later consumption.

Serving Suggestions

Meatball soup with green celery and lovage is perfect served hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta. A glass of white wine or a glass of sparkling water enhances the culinary experience.

Possible Variations

If you want to experiment, you can add spices like garlic or thyme to the meatball mixture. You can also try replacing rice with quinoa for a gluten-free option.

So, prepare your ingredients and enjoy the magic of cooking! This soup not only brings a satisfying meal but also warm memories and unforgettable moments with loved ones. Enjoy your meal!