Meatball soup with vegetables

Meatball soup with vegetables – a comforting and delicious recipe

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

Meatball soup with vegetables is a traditional dish that reminds us of family meals, filled with warmth and flavors. This soup is an excellent choice for all family members, including the little ones, who are often more attracted to meatballs than to the vegetables on their plate. We will learn together how to turn this recipe into a success, even for those who hesitate in front of vegetables.

The history of meatball soup dates back to ancient times, but it is a dish that has evolved in different cultures, bringing together meat, rice, and vegetables in a symphony of flavors and textures. Over the years, each housewife has contributed to this recipe, adapting it to her family's preferences. Today, I will present my version, which combines tradition with useful tricks to achieve a perfect meatball soup with vegetables.

Ingredients:

500 g minced meat (pork, beef, or a mix)
4-5 tablespoons of rice (preferably long grain)
1 egg (for binding the mixture)
Salt and pepper, to taste
2-3 medium carrots
1 slice of celery (about 50 g)
1 parsley root (about 50 g)
1 onion (medium)
500 ml homemade borscht (or to taste)
200 g tomato paste
1/2 red bell pepper
1/2 green bell pepper
3 tablespoons of olive oil
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Step by step for a delicious meatball soup:

1. Preparing the vegetables – Start by peeling the carrots, celery, parsley, and bell peppers. Cut the carrots, celery, and parsley into cubes or julienne, as preferred. If you have a vegetable cutter, use it to save time.

2. Sautéing the vegetables – In a large pan, add the 3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped vegetables and sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become slightly soft and fragrant. Sautéing the vegetables helps to enhance the flavors and develop the taste.

3. Preparing the broth – Transfer the sautéed vegetables to a large pot and add enough water to cover the vegetables. Also add the whole onion (do not chop it, as it will be removed at the end). Add salt to taste and place the pot over high heat. When the water starts to boil, reduce the heat to medium.

4. Forming the meatballs – In a large bowl, combine the minced meat with the rice, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well using your hands until all ingredients are well incorporated. Form small meatballs, the size of a ping-pong ball (or smaller, if preferred). They will swell and cook in the soup, becoming delicious.

5. Cooking the meatballs – When the water with the vegetables starts to boil, carefully add the meatballs to the pot. Cover with a lid and let the soup boil over medium heat for about 20 minutes. Check occasionally, stirring gently to avoid sticking the meatballs to the bottom of the pot.

6. Finalizing the soup – After the meatballs are well cooked, add the borscht and tomato paste to the pot. Stir gently and let it boil for another 5-10 minutes. Adjust the taste with salt and pepper, as preferred.

7. Serving – Finally, add the chopped fresh parsley over the soup. This not only adds extra flavor but also a touch of freshness. You can serve the soup plain or with a spoonful of sour cream, if you like.

Useful tips:
- If you want the soup to have a more intense flavor, you can add a bay leaf during cooking.
- Instead of tomato paste, you can use peeled, finely chopped fresh tomatoes for a fresher flavor.
- If you prefer the vegetables to be less visible, you can blend them with an immersion blender, resulting in a creamy soup.

Nutritional benefits:
Meatball soup with vegetables is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. The minced meat provides quality protein, while the vegetables contribute to the intake of fiber and essential nutrients. A serving of soup can have approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of oil and sour cream added.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use chicken meat for the meatballs? Yes, chicken meat is an excellent alternative for a lighter option.
- How can I prevent the meatballs from falling apart in the soup? Make sure to form them well and not stir them too much in the water. The rice will also help bind the mixture.
- Can I add other vegetables to the soup? Absolutely! Carrots, zucchini, or green beans are excellent options that can be added for extra flavor and color.

Delicious combinations:
Meatball soup pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or polenta. You can also serve a dry white wine, which will complement the soup's flavor and provide a special culinary experience.

Meatball soup with vegetables is a dish that will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Whether it's a Sunday family meal or a quick dinner during the week, this recipe will provide you with the comfort and warmth you need. Experiment with the ingredients and find the perfect combination for your taste!