Tomato soup with meatballs

Tomato soup with meatballs is a comforting dish, full of flavor and color, that reminds us of family meals and moments spent around the table. This simple yet delicious recipe combines the juiciness of tomatoes with the tenderness of chicken breast meatballs, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. Additionally, it is an excellent option for a quick dinner, with a total preparation time of about 50 minutes and enough for 4 servings.

Ingredients:

For the soup:
- 1 can of peeled tomatoes (400 g)
- 2 fresh tomatoes, peeled
- 1 carrot
- 1 onion
- 1 bell pepper (preferably green for a pleasant contrast)
- 1 piece of celery (about 100 g)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste

For the meatballs:
- 1 chicken breast (about 400 g)
- ~50 g rice (a quarter cup)
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Nutritional information:
This soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, thanks to the fresh vegetables. The chicken breast also provides lean protein, while the rice adds complex carbohydrates, making it a filling and healthy option. Each serving contains approximately 250 calories, making this soup an ideal choice for a light meal.

Preparation:

1. Prepare the ingredients:
Start by finely chopping the onion, carrot, bell pepper, and celery. These vegetables will add depth and sweetness to the soup, so make sure to cut them evenly for uniform cooking.

2. Prepare the meatballs:
In a bowl, finely chop the chicken breast (you can use a food processor to do this quickly and efficiently). Add salt, pepper, the beaten egg, and the washed rice. Mix all the ingredients well until you have a homogeneous mixture. It is essential to add the rice raw, as it will cook in the soup and absorb the flavors.

3. Form the meatballs:
Using a spoon, take small amounts of the chicken mixture and form meatballs of similar sizes for even cooking.

4. Boil the soup:
In a large pot, add about 2 liters of water and bring it to a boil. Once the water is boiling, carefully plunge the meatballs into the water. They will rise to the surface when cooked. Let them boil for 5-7 minutes, skimming occasionally to remove impurities.

5. Add the vegetables:
Once the meatballs have started to rise, add the chopped vegetables (carrot, onion, bell pepper, and celery) and boil for 10 minutes until they become slightly soft.

6. Include the tomatoes:
While the vegetables are boiling, peel the fresh tomatoes and blend them to obtain a smooth puree. Add this tomato puree and the canned tomatoes to the pot. Stir to combine the flavors.

7. Final boil:
Let the soup simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes until the vegetables are fully cooked and the meatballs are tender and juicy. If you find the soup too thick, add hot water until the desired consistency is reached.

8. Finish the soup:
Finally, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Add the finely chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness and flavor.

Serving and suggestions:
Serve the tomato soup with meatballs hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or crunchy croutons. It can also be enjoyed with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a more intense flavor.

Possible variations:
If you want to experiment, try adding spices like basil or oregano for a Mediterranean flavor. You can also replace the chicken breast with turkey meat or even a vegetarian option using tofu or mushrooms for the meatballs.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? Yes, using fresh tomatoes will add a note of freshness, but make sure to peel them correctly.
- How can I make the soup spicier? Add a finely chopped chili pepper during the preparation of the vegetables or spices like cayenne pepper.
- Can I prepare this soup in advance? Absolutely! The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and can be comforting when reheated.

Tomato soup with meatballs is more than just a simple meal; it is a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly days or when you want to bring a touch of warmth to the hearts of your loved ones. So, prepare the ingredients and let's enjoy this delicious recipe together!