Simple meatball soup with vegetables

Simple meatball soup with vegetables - a warm and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 90 minutes
Number of servings: 6

On a gloomy day, there is nothing more comforting than a meatball soup with vegetables, a recipe that reminds us of family meals filled with stories and laughter. This dish is not just a simple soup, but a true indulgence for the soul, with rich flavors and varied textures.

The history of meatball soup is ancient, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. These small meatballs, enriched with fresh vegetables, were originally created to use leftover meat and add flavor to simple dishes. Meatball soup is not only nourishing but also packed with vitamins from the vegetables, making it an excellent choice for a healthy meal.

Ingredients needed for the soup:

- 3 liters of water
- 1 carrot (diced)
- 1 parsley root (diced)
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
- 1 meat bone (preferably beef or pork, for added flavor)
- 1 liter of borscht (or lemon juice, for a tangy taste)
- 3 small tomatoes (diced)
- 1 egg yolk (for added creaminess)
- Chopped greens (parsley, dill, to taste)

Ingredients needed for the meatballs:

- 500 g minced meat (beef, pork, or a combination)
- The crumb of a slice of bread (soaked in water or milk)
- 1 cup of rice (washed)
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
- 1 egg (to bind the mixture)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Sour cream (for serving, optional)

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the base for the soup: In a large pot, add 3 liters of water and the meat bone. Let it boil over medium heat. When the water starts to boil, add the diced carrot, parsley, and onion. Let the ingredients boil for 30 minutes to combine the flavors.

2. Preparing the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the minced meat with the soaked bread crumb, washed rice, finely chopped onion, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well to obtain a homogeneous mixture. If desired, you can also add spices like paprika or garlic powder for a more intense flavor.

3. Shaping the meatballs: With wet hands, form small balls from the meat mixture, making sure they are about the size of a walnut. They will puff up slightly during cooking due to the rice.

4. Adding the meatballs to the soup: After the vegetables have boiled for about 30 minutes, carefully add the meatballs, being careful not to break them. Let them boil for 20-25 minutes until cooked. Check that the meatballs are cooked by cutting one in half – the meat should be fully cooked.

5. Finishing the soup: Add the diced tomatoes and let it boil for another 5 minutes. Finally, incorporate the borscht (or lemon juice) and the egg yolk, stirring gently. Let it boil for a few more minutes, then add the chopped greens for an extra freshness.

6. Serving: The meatball soup is served hot, with a spoonful of sour cream on top for extra flavor. You can also add a slice of fresh bread on the side.

Practical tips:

- If you want a thicker soup, you can add more rice or even some diced potatoes.
- The borscht can be replaced with lemon juice or vinegar, but remember to adjust the amount to taste.
- To make the dish more aromatic, add spices like thyme or bay leaves during boiling.

Nutritional information:

A serving of meatball soup has approximately 300-350 calories, depending on the type of meat used and the amount of sour cream added. It provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals from the vegetables, making it an excellent choice for a nutritious meal.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use chicken for the meatballs?
Yes, chicken can be used, but it will require an adjustment in cooking time, as it cooks faster.

2. How can I make the soup spicier?
Add chopped hot peppers or spices like cayenne pepper during the preparation of the meatballs.

3. How long can I keep the soup?
Meatball soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can freeze it, but it's best to consume it within 2 months.

Serving suggestions:

This soup is perfect to be served alongside a fresh salad or a slice of homemade bread. Additionally, a glass of white wine or a cold lemonade can perfectly complement the meal.

Meatball soup is more than just a simple dish; it is a blessing on cold days and a reminder of the comfort of home. I hope this recipe becomes one of your favorites, bringing you joy and warmth in every spoonful!