Mexican meatball soup with oregano.
Mexican meatball soup with oregano - an explosion of flavors in a bowl of comfort
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6
Discover the magic of a recipe that blends tradition with the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine - meatball soup with fresh oregano! This soup is not just a simple meal, but a culinary experience that will delight you with every spoonful. Fresh oregano, an often-overlooked ingredient, provides a surprisingly intense and refreshing taste, transforming the soup into a true delicacy. Let's begin our culinary journey!
Ingredients
- 500 g ground meat (a mix of beef and pork for a richer texture)
- 4 tablespoons cooked rice (or 2 tablespoons uncooked rice, but it will require more cooking time)
- 1 beaten egg
- 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon hot paprika (optional, for those who love a little heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 315 ml tomato puree (preferably from fresh tomatoes for a more authentic taste)
- 1 liter beef broth (you can also use chicken broth if you prefer)
- 15 g fresh oregano, finely chopped (or more to taste)
Step by step
1. Preparing the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, cooked rice (if using uncooked rice, you will need to add it later), beaten egg, sweet paprika, hot paprika (if desired), and salt. Mix the ingredients well with your hands or a spatula until a homogeneous mixture forms.
2. Forming the meatballs: With wet hands, shape the meatballs to the size of a walnut or according to your preferences. Make sure they are well compacted so they do not fall apart during cooking.
3. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté for another minute, being careful not to burn it.
4. Preparing the soup: Add the tomato puree and beef broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally. Once the soup starts to boil, add the meatballs one by one, being careful not to overcrowd them.
5. Boiling: Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes. The meatballs will cook gradually, and the flavors will blend perfectly.
6. Finalizing: When the meatballs are cooked, add the finely chopped fresh oregano. Taste and adjust the salt or spices if necessary.
Serving
Serve the soup hot, sprinkled with a little fresh oregano on top. You can accompany it with a slice of fresh bread or warm tortilla. A wonderful idea is to add a few slices of avocado or a spoonful of sour cream for an extra creaminess.
Helpful tips
- Oregano: Fresh oregano brings a vibrant flavor, but you can also use dried oregano if you don't have it on hand. However, the taste will be different; fresh oregano is irreplaceable!
- Meat: The mix of beef and pork provides a rich texture, but you can experiment with chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
- Vegetarian option: You can replace the meat with a combination of vegetables and tofu to create a delicious vegetarian soup.
Nutritional benefits
This soup is rich in protein due to the meat and egg, while the rice provides complex carbohydrates that offer energy. Oregano is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is a nourishing and comforting recipe, perfect for chilly days.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Carrots, celery, or bell peppers can be added for extra nutrients and flavors.
- What can I do with leftovers?
The soup keeps well in the fridge for a few days and can be reheated. It also freezes well, so you can make a double batch for days when you don’t have time to cook.
Delicious pairings
For a perfect lunch or dinner, serve the meatball soup with a fresh green salad drizzled with lemon and olive oil. A lemonade or herbal tea will perfectly complement the meals.
This meatball soup with oregano is a recipe you will crave time and again, thanks to its rich and comforting flavor. It is simple, quick, yet full of personality. So, put on your chef's apron and let yourself be carried away by the aromas of this recipe that will warm your heart!
Ingredients: 500 g minced meat mix, 4 tablespoons of cooked rice or 2 tablespoons of uncooked rice, 1 beaten egg, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon hot paprika (optional) - I didn't add it because I have the small pieces, 1 teaspoon salt, 2 tablespoons oil, 1 small onion, finely chopped, 1 clove of garlic, finely chopped, 315 ml crushed tomatoes, 1 liter of beef broth, 15 g fresh oregano, finely chopped.
