Meatball soup with potatoes

Meatball and Potato Soup: A Warm Embrace in a Bowl

If you’ve ever been left with meatballs after a delicious meal, don’t worry! These little meat delights can easily be transformed into a nourishing and comforting soup, perfect for cooler days or simply to brighten up an ordinary day. Meatball and potato soup is a simple yet flavorful recipe that requires few ingredients and is very easy to prepare.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Your ingredients for the delicious soup:
- 10-15 meatballs (if you have leftovers, it’s perfect)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 500 g potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 bay leaf
- A small bunch of fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons of oil (preferably olive oil for a richer flavor)
- Water (about 1.5 liters or enough to cover the ingredients)

Preparing this soup is a pleasure! Let’s get started:

1. Heat the oil: In a large pot, add the oil and let it heat over medium heat. Olive oil will add a delicious flavor, but you can also use sunflower oil if you prefer.

2. Sauté the onion: Add the finely chopped onion to the pot and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and starts to brown slightly. The aromas will begin to reveal themselves, and your kitchen will be filled with delightful scents.

3. Add the potatoes: Put the diced potatoes into the pot. Stir well and let them brown slightly for about 5 minutes. This step will add a pleasant texture to the soup.

4. Add the water: Pour water into the pot, enough to cover the ingredients. Bring the soup to a boil. Once it starts boiling, add the fried meatballs, bay leaf, salt, and pepper to taste.

5. Simmer on medium heat: Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer on medium heat for 20-25 minutes until the potatoes are soft and start to break down slightly. This process will enrich the soup with the flavors of the meatballs and create a creamy base.

6. Finish with parsley: Once the potatoes are ready, add the chopped parsley at the end for an extra touch of freshness. Stir well and let the soup simmer for another 2-3 minutes.

7. Serving: Serve the soup hot, sprinkled with an extra dash of fresh parsley. You can also enjoy a slice of fresh bread or crunchy croutons alongside this comforting soup.

Helpful tips:
- You can use meatballs that you made earlier or even make them on the spot, using pork, beef, or chicken, depending on your preferences.
- If you want a heartier soup, you can add sliced carrots or celery for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices! A teaspoon of sweet paprika or red pepper adds a splash of color and taste.

Nutritional benefits:
This soup is not only tasty but also nutritious. Potatoes are an excellent source of carbohydrates and vitamin C, while the meatballs provide essential proteins. Parsley offers antioxidants and fiber, contributing to a healthy diet. A serving of meatball and potato soup has approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen meatballs? Yes, it’s an excellent option! Just make sure to thaw and fry them a bit before adding them to the soup.
2. How can I make the soup spicier? Add a bit of chili pepper or spicy seasonings during cooking.
3. Is this soup suitable for a vegetarian diet? You can replace the meatballs with vegetable meatballs or fried tofu for a vegetarian version.

Meatball and potato soup is much more than just a simple recipe; it’s a way to turn leftovers into a delicious and comforting meal. Whether you serve it for lunch or dinner, this soup will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!