Meatball soup with cabbage broth

Meatball soup with cabbage juice is a traditional dish that combines the rich flavors of smoked meat with the freshness of vegetables and the pleasant acidity of cabbage juice. This recipe not only satisfies the taste buds but also brings a sense of comfort, reminding us of family holiday meals. Let's discover together how to prepare this delicacy step by step, turning each stage into a culinary pleasure.

Preparation time
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour
- Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Number of servings: 6

Ingredients
For meatballs:
- 250 g minced meat (a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons of washed rice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon of tomato paste
- ½ teaspoon of hot paprika
- Fresh dill, chopped

For the soup:
- 6-8 pieces of smoked ribs (about 300 g)
- 3 liters of cold water
- 1 liter of strained cabbage juice
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 parsley root, peeled and chopped
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 bunch of fresh lovage, chopped
- 30 g rice
- Salt, to taste
- 150 ml sour cream

Preparation technique
Step 1: Preparing the meatballs
1. Start by gathering all the ingredients for the meatballs in a large bowl. Add the minced meat, finely chopped onion, washed rice, eggs, tomato paste, paprika, and chopped dill.
2. Season with salt and pepper, then mix all the ingredients well with your hands or a spatula until you achieve a uniform mixture.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 10 minutes. This step will help the flavors meld and make the meatballs easier to shape.

Step 2: Preparing the soup
1. In a large pot, add 3 liters of cold water and a teaspoon of salt. Place the well-washed smoked ribs in the water.
2. Put the pot on the stove and bring the water to a boil. Once it starts boiling, use a skimmer to skim the soup, removing impurities from the surface. This will ensure a clear and tasty soup.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let the ribs simmer for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Adding the vegetables
1. After 30 minutes, add the onion, carrots, bell peppers, and parsley root to the pot. Cover with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 20 minutes.
2. After this time, add the washed rice and meatballs. You can use a spoon to shape the meatballs carefully, ensuring not to break them.
3. Boil everything for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Finalizing the soup
1. Add the diced tomatoes and the cabbage juice that has been brought to a boil. This combination of ingredients will give the soup a tangy and fresh taste.
2. Adjust the salt and acidity to taste, and let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes.
3. Turn off the heat and add the chopped lovage, mixing well.

Serving
Meatball soup is served hot, adding a spoonful of sour cream on top of each serving. You can garnish with fresh dill for an extra splash of color and flavor. This recipe pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or polenta, offering loved ones an unforgettable feast.

Practical tips
- Meat: Choose fresh, high-quality meat for the meatballs. The mix of beef and pork is ideal for achieving a juicy texture.
- Vegetables: You can also add other vegetables, such as potatoes or celery, to enrich the flavor of the soup.
- Variations: If you prefer a lighter version, you can use chicken or turkey instead of pork.
- Substitutions: If you don’t have cabbage juice, you can use lemon juice or vinegar to add acidity to the soup.

Nutritional benefits
Meatball soup is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Pork and beef provide essential amino acids, while the vegetables bring a variety of necessary nutrients to the body. Additionally, cabbage juice is rich in probiotics, beneficial for digestive health.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use frozen meat for the meatballs? Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it before using.
- How can I make the soup spicier? Add more hot paprika or a bit of finely chopped fresh chili pepper.
- Can meatball soup be frozen? Yes, but it's recommended to freeze it without sour cream and add it before serving.

This meatball soup with cabbage juice is not just a simple dish, but a true culinary experience that brings the family together around the table. Whether you enjoy it on a chilly day or at a gathering with friends, each bite will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: Ingredients for meatballs - 250 g minced meat mix of beef and pork - 1 medium onion - 2 eggs - 2 tablespoons rice - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 teaspoon tomato paste - 1/2 teaspoon hot paprika - Chopped fresh dill Ingredients for soup - 6-8 pieces of smoked ribs - 3 l of water - 1 l of strained cabbage juice - 2 carrots - 1 parsley root - 2 medium onions - 1 red bell pepper - 1 green bell pepper - 2 tomatoes - 1 bunch of fresh lovage - 30 g rice - Salt if needed - 150 ml sour cream