Meatball soup with smoked meat

Meatball soup with smoked meat: a feast of flavors

Meatball soup with smoked meat is more than just a simple recipe. It is a story full of traditions, comfort, and aroma, reminding us of family meals, moments spent together, and the warmth of home. This soup is perfect for chilly days or to bring a touch of joy to any day.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 80 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Necessary ingredients:

For meatballs:
- 350 g minced meat (a mix of beef and pork for a rich flavor)
- 1 tablespoon rice
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon semolina
- A handful of fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste

For the soup:
- 1 smoked rib (about 300 g)
- 1 carrot, peeled and grated
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- Half a red bell pepper, diced
- Half a yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 tomato, peeled and chopped into small pieces
- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped
- A handful of fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 ½ cups borscht (for a sour taste)
- A handful of noodles

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the soup base: Rinse the smoked rib, then place it in a large pot with water (about 6-7 liters). Put the pot over medium heat and let it reach boiling point. At this point, remove the foam that forms on the surface with a skimmer to obtain a clear soup.

2. Adding the vegetables: Peel and finely chop the onion. Grate the carrot on a large grater. Dice the red and yellow bell peppers, and peel and chop the tomato into small pieces. After the rib has boiled for about 15 minutes, add all the chopped vegetables to the pot. Cover the pot and let it simmer until the rib is half cooked.

3. Preparing the meatballs: Rinse the rice well under cold running water and boil it in salted water until soft. In a large bowl, mix the minced meat with salt and pepper, then add the cooked rice, semolina, eggs, and chopped dill. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. Wet your hands in water and form the meatballs, ensuring they are of equal size.

4. Cooking the meatballs: When the vegetables have softened, gently add the meatballs to the soup to avoid breaking them. Let them simmer over low heat, so they remain tender and juicy.

5. Finalizing the soup: When the meatballs are cooked (about 15-20 minutes), add salt and pepper to taste. Start incorporating the borscht into the soup and let it boil for a few minutes. Finally, add the noodles and let them cook for another 5 minutes.

6. Serving: Turn off the heat and add the chopped dill and parsley. Allow the soup to cool slightly before serving. You can serve it with a slice of fresh bread and a splash of sour cream, which will add a creamy touch.

Useful tips:
- Choosing the meat: A mix of beef and pork provides a richer flavor. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use only chicken.
- Spices: You can experiment with other spices, such as thyme or sweet paprika, to add extra flavor.
- Vegetarian option: Replace the meat with a combination of vegetables and tofu or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version.

Nutritional benefits:
Meatball soup with smoked meat is not only tasty but also nutritious. Pork and beef provide essential proteins, while the vegetables add important vitamins and minerals. The borscht adds a source of probiotics, beneficial for digestion.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of smoked meat? Yes, you can use smoked sausages or even pancetta for a different taste.
- How can I store leftover soup? The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days or frozen for later consumption.

Serving:
Meatball soup pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a mustard sauce for an interesting contrast of flavors. Additionally, a glass of white wine or a warm herbal tea can perfectly complement the meal.

This meatball soup recipe with smoked meat is a true culinary treat that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Don't hesitate to cook it and enjoy every spoonful!