Meatball soup.

Meatball soup is a traditional dish, cherished by many generations, that brings the authentic taste of childhood to the plate. This recipe is not just a simple soup, but a culinary experience that combines the flavors of fresh vegetables with the tenderness of meatballs, resulting in a comforting and flavorful dish. Let's embark on a journey into the world of delicious meatball soup!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 80 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients

- 750 g minced meat (a mix of pork and beef)
- 300 g beef bones (for a richer flavor)
- 3 medium-sized onions
- 4 tablespoons of rice
- 2 carrots
- 1 celery root (about 200 g)
- 2 bell peppers (preferably one red and one green for color)
- 2-3 medium-sized potatoes
- 3-4 large tomatoes (or 400 g canned tomatoes)
- 2 eggs (for the meatballs and to sour the soup)
- 200 g sour cream (for serving)
- Salt (to taste)
- A bunch of fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- A bunch of lovage (for extra flavor)
- Hot pepper (for those who prefer a bit of heat)

Preparing the meatball soup

Step 1: Preparing the vegetables

Start by finely chopping the 3 onions. Then, grate the carrots and celery, and slice the bell peppers into thin strips. These vegetables will add flavor and sweetness to the soup.

Step 2: Sautéing the vegetables

Heat 3 tablespoons of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes. Then, add the carrot, celery, and bell peppers, along with a pinch of salt to help release the flavors. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become slightly translucent.

Step 3: Boiling the vegetables

Fill the pot with water (about 2-3 liters) and bring to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the diced potatoes. Let it simmer until all the vegetables are soft, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 4: Preparing the meatball mixture

Meanwhile, in a large bowl, mix the minced meat with the remaining grated onion, chopped parsley, egg, rice, salt, and pepper to taste. It is important that all ingredients are well combined to achieve fluffy meatballs. Form meatballs the size of golf balls to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Adding the tomatoes and meatballs

When the vegetables in the pot are nearly cooked, add the peeled and grated tomatoes (or the canned ones if you choose this option) and mix well. Then, add the meatballs and let them simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes until they are fully cooked. You can check if they are done by cutting one in half; the meat should be well cooked, and the rice should be soft.

Step 6: Souring the soup

Once the meatballs are cooked, add the borscht (about 500 ml, depending on your preference for sourness) and let it boil for a few minutes. Then, beat the 2 eggs in a bowl and gradually add them to the soup, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. This will give the soup a creamy consistency and a rich flavor.

Step 7: Finalizing the dish

Add the lovage and chopped parsley, then adjust the salt and sourness to taste. The meatball soup is now ready to be served!

Chef's Tip

For an even more intense flavor, you can add some beef bones while boiling the vegetables. These will enrich the soup's aroma and give it a richer consistency.

Serving and pairings

Meatball soup is served hot, with a generous spoonful of sour cream on top and sprinkled with freshly chopped parsley. You can add hot pepper for those who love a spicy taste. This soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of freshly baked homemade bread or polenta.

Variations

If you want to experiment, you can replace the rice with quinoa or bulgur for a healthier option. You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or green beans, to diversify the recipe.

Nutritional benefits

Meatball soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. It contains protein from the meat, vitamins and minerals from the vegetables, and the rice adds complex carbohydrates. Each serving of soup has about 350-400 calories, making it a suitable choice for a hearty lunch.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use chicken instead of pork and beef?
Yes, you can use chicken, but the meatballs will have a different texture and taste.

2. How long can I keep the soup in the fridge?
The soup can be kept in the fridge for 3-4 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container.

3. Can I freeze meatball soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup, but it is recommended to do so without sour cream. Add sour cream when serving, after thawing.

4. What other dishes pair well with this soup?
Meatball soup pairs well with polenta, seasonal salads, or a cheese pie.

In conclusion, meatball soup is not just a recipe, but a true culinary tradition that brings joy to the family table. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or for an ordinary dinner, this soup will surely be appreciated by all your loved ones. So put on your apron and enjoy this delicacy! Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: Bell pepper, minced meat (pork + beef), lovage, carrot, beef bones, rice, eggs, parsley, tomatoes, salt, sour cream, celery. 750 g minced meat (pork + beef), 300 g bones, 3 medium onions, 4 tablespoons rice, 2 carrots, 1 celery, 2 bell peppers, 2-3 potatoes, 3-4 large tomatoes, 2 eggs, sour cream, salt, parsley, lovage, chili pepper.