Meatball soup with potatoes

Meatball soup with potatoes is a traditional dish loved by everyone, reminding us of warm and fragrant meals from childhood. This recipe is not only delicious but also very nutritious, making it a perfect choice for a family meal. The soup is a wonderful combination of fresh vegetables, tender meatballs, and a comforting aroma, ensuring an unforgettable culinary experience.

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

Necessary ingredients:

For the soup:
- 1/2 yellow bell pepper
- 1/2 red bell pepper
- 2 medium tomatoes (preferably well-ripened)
- 1 large carrot
- 1 green onion
- 1/2 bunch of fresh parsley
- 2 medium potatoes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Borscht for souring (approximately 300 ml)
- 4 tablespoons sour cream

For the meatballs:
- 400 g mixed ground meat (beef and pork)
- 1 small onion
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 sprigs of fresh dill
- 3 sprigs of fresh parsley

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by cleaning the red and yellow bell peppers from seeds, then chop them into small cubes. This will add not only color but also a sweet and fragrant taste to your soup. Peel the carrot and grate it on the large holes of a grater for a pleasant texture. Slice the green onion into rounds, and finely chop the parsley to bring freshness and flavor.

2. Boiling the vegetables: In a large pot, add about 4 liters of water and put it on the heat. When the water starts to boil, add the prepared vegetables (bell peppers, carrot, green onion, and parsley). Let them boil for about 10 minutes to soften and release their flavors.

3. Adding the potatoes and tomatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into suitable cubes. After peeling the tomatoes (you can also use canned tomatoes if it's easier), chop them finely. Add the potatoes and tomatoes to the pot, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Let it boil over medium heat for another 15 minutes.

4. Preparing the meatballs: While the vegetables are boiling, you can prepare the meatballs. Peel and finely chop the onion. In a bowl, combine the ground meat with the onion, egg, dill, and chopped parsley, adding salt and pepper to taste. Mix the ingredients well to obtain a homogeneous mixture.

5. Forming the meatballs: Wet your hands with water to prevent the mixture from sticking and form the meatballs to your desired size, making sure they are not too large for even cooking.

6. Cooking the meatballs: After the potatoes have boiled for 15 minutes, lower the heat and carefully add the meatballs to the pot. Adjust the heat until the soup starts to simmer gently. Cook the meatballs for 10-15 minutes, or until fully cooked.

7. Adding the borscht: Taste the soup to check if it needs more salt or pepper. Add the borscht to sour the soup according to your preferences. Let it come to a boil, then add the sour cream and let it simmer for another minute.

8. Finishing and serving: When the soup is ready, take it off the heat and sprinkle chopped parsley on top. This will add a splash of color and freshness. Serve the soup hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta, to complete this comforting meal.

Useful tips:
- You can customize the meatballs by adding spices like garlic or paprika for a more intense flavor.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can use chicken or turkey meat for the meatballs.
- Meatball soup can be served with hot chili peppers for those who enjoy a bit of spice.

Nutritional benefits:
This soup is rich in protein due to the meat, while the vegetables provide plenty of vitamins and minerals. Potatoes offer complex carbohydrates, essential for energy, and the greens contribute antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, frozen vegetables are a convenient alternative and can be successfully used in the recipe.
- How long can the soup be kept in the fridge? The soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- Can the soup be frozen? Yes, you can keep a portion in the freezer, but it's better to add the sour cream after thawing.

Ideal combinations:
This soup pairs perfectly with a summer salad or warm polenta. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine or fresh lemonade is ideal to complete the meal.

Meatball soup with potatoes is more than just a simple recipe; it is a culinary experience that brings family and friends together around the table. Enjoy every spoonful, savoring the rich and comforting flavors! Bon appétit!