Fish meatball soup

Fish meatball soup is a comforting dish, full of flavors and tradition, reminding us of family meals where each ingredient has its well-defined role. This recipe is not only delicious but also an excellent source of nutrients, considering that fish is a lean protein rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Let’s embark on this savory soup preparation together, step by step.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

For the soup:
- 1 medium onion
- 1 medium carrot
- 1 medium parsnip
- 1 red bell pepper
- 2 tablespoons of rice
- 2 ripe tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- 1 liter of borscht
- 1 teaspoon of Delikat (or salt, to taste)
- fresh parsley
- fresh lovage

For the meatballs:
- 300 g catfish
- 100 g pangasius
- 1 small onion
- 2 tablespoons of rice
- 2 sprigs of parsley
- 1 teaspoon of Delikat
- pepper, to taste
- 2 eggs

Step by step preparation:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by finely chopping the onion, carrot, parsnip, and bell pepper. This will add a rich flavor and pleasant texture to your soup.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, add a little oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the chopped carrot and parsnip, allowing them to sauté together for 2 minutes. Add the bell pepper and continue to sauté, stirring constantly.

3. Adding water: Once the vegetables are sautéed, pour in enough warm water to cover them. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer.

4. Preparing the meatballs: Meanwhile, focus on the meatballs. Select the catfish and pangasius, ensuring they are free of bones. Use an immersion blender to grind them into a fine texture. This is a simple and quick method that will save you time.

5. Mixing the meatball ingredients: To the ground meat, add the finely chopped onion, the 2 tablespoons of partially cooked rice, a teaspoon of Delikat, a pinch of pepper, and the chopped parsley. Mix all the ingredients well, then add a few drops of water to achieve a slightly moist mixture. Form small meatballs the size of an olive.

6. Adding the rice: When the vegetables in the pot are almost cooked, add the 2 tablespoons of uncooked rice. Let it boil together with the vegetables for about 5 minutes.

7. Incorporating the meatballs: Use a spatula to transfer the meatballs into the pot. Here’s an important trick: to achieve fluffier meatballs, beat the 2 eggs with a pinch of salt and 2-3 tablespoons of water. Once you have formed the meatballs, dip them into the beaten eggs, ensuring they are evenly coated. Then, remove them with a slotted spoon and add them to the soup.

8. Finalizing the soup: When the meatballs start to rise to the surface, add the finely chopped tomatoes and tomato paste. Let it boil for about 10 minutes. Finally, pour in the borscht and add the Delikat, allowing the soup to boil for a few more minutes.

9. Serving: Once all the ingredients are cooked, turn off the heat and add the finely chopped parsley and lovage for a fresh aroma.

Serving suggestion: Fish meatball soup is served hot, accompanied by a slice of lemon and a spoonful of sour cream, which will add a delicious creaminess. You can pair this dish with freshly baked, crispy bread.

Tips and variations: If you want to add a hint of flavor, you can experiment with spices such as dill or coriander. You can also replace the catfish with another type of fish, depending on your preferences. Another option is to add vegetables like zucchini or potatoes for a heartier soup.

Nutritional benefits: Fish meatball soup is an excellent choice for a healthy diet. Fish is rich in proteins and essential fatty acids, benefiting the heart and brain. The vegetables used provide an important supply of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can the soup be frozen? Yes, you can freeze the soup, but it is recommended to add the borscht and greens after thawing to maintain fresh flavors.
2. Can I use frozen fish? Sure! Make sure it is well thawed and drained before using.
3. What can I do with leftover soup? The leftover soup can be used as a base for a pasta soup or as a sauce for a main dish.

Fish meatball soup is a simple yet flavorful recipe, perfect for cool days or for moments when you want to indulge in something healthy and delicious. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and amaze your family with your culinary skills! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 1 medium onion, 1 suitable carrot, 1 suitable parsnip, 1 red bell pepper, 2 tablespoons of rice, 2 ripe tomatoes, 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, delicate borscht, parsley, lovage. For meatballs: 300 g catfish, 100 g pangasius, 1 small onion, 2 tablespoons of rice, 2 sprigs of delicate parsley, pepper, 2 eggs.