Meatball soup

Meatball soup is a traditional recipe that brings a touch of warmth and comfort on gloomy days. This flavorful and nourishing soup is perfect for enjoying with loved ones, featuring a rich taste and hearty texture. Moreover, it is a versatile recipe that can be adapted based on available ingredients. Let’s discover together the steps to prepare this delicious meatball soup!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 50-55 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients needed

For the soup:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 sausages (preferably with paprika, for a more intense flavor)
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 2 cups milk
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 tablespoon oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cube of vegetable broth
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

For the meatballs:
- 250 g ground meat (pork or a mix)
- 60 g rice, washed and drained
- 50 g bread, soaked in water or milk and then squeezed
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Step by step for the meatball soup

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
We start by preparing all the ingredients. Chop the onion finely and slice the carrots thinly. These will give the soup a sweet and lively aroma. If you use sausages with paprika, you will achieve a pleasant red hue in the soup that will inspire appetite.

Step 2: Boiling the vegetables
In a large pot, add 2 liters of water and bring to a boil. When the water starts boiling, add the onion, carrots, and sliced sausages. Let it boil over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, until the carrots become tender.

Step 3: Preparing the meatballs
Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine the ground meat with the rice, squeezed bread, egg, and seasonings (salt and pepper). Mix the ingredients well until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. Form balls the size of a walnut – these will be the meatballs. A personal suggestion is to fill the meatballs with a small cube of cheese for a creamy surprise inside.

Step 4: Boiling the meatballs
When the vegetables are cooked, add the meatballs to the pot. Let them boil for 15-20 minutes, until they rise to the surface and are fully cooked. At this point, it’s good to check the consistency of the meatballs; they should be tender and juicy.

Step 5: Preparing the roux
In a separate pan, add the oil and flour, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. When the mixture turns golden, slowly add the milk and sour cream, continuing to stir to achieve a smooth composition.

Step 6: Finalizing the soup
After the meatballs are cooked, add the roux to the pot. Add the bay leaf and the vegetable broth cube, then let it simmer on low heat for 2-3 minutes. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper, as preferred. Before serving, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness.

Practical tips
- Vegetarian version: You can adapt this recipe using soy meat or chopped vegetables for the meatballs.
- For an even more intense flavor: Instead of paprika in the sausages, try a teaspoon of sweet paprika mixed with a little oil or a tablespoon of tomato paste. These will add a note of flavor and vibrant color.
- Serving: Meatball soup is delicious served with a slice of fresh bread or crispy croutons. A glass of white wine or fresh lemonade is perfect to complement the meal.

Nutritional benefits
This soup is an excellent source of protein and fiber, thanks to the meatballs and vegetables. The ground meat provides essential nutrients, while the vegetables contribute important vitamins and minerals. By adding sour cream and milk, we achieve a creamy and comforting dish, perfect for chilly days.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, you can use chicken, turkey, or even beef, depending on personal preferences.

2. How can I store the soup?
The soup keeps well in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 2-3 days. It can also be frozen for later use.

3. What can I do if I don’t have rice?
You can replace the rice with quinoa or oatmeal, which will add an interesting texture to the meatballs.

4. How can I vary the flavors?
Try adding spices like thyme or dill, which will give the soup an additional flavor.

Meatball soup is not just a recipe, but also a family story, a comfort in a bowl, and a way to gather people around the table. So, don’t hesitate to explore and customize your recipe, turning it into your own tradition! Enjoy every bite and cherish the moment.

 Ingredients: 1 small onion 2 sausages 2 carrots 2 tablespoons sour cream 2 cups milk 1 tablespoon flour 1 tablespoon oil salt, pepper 1 bay leaf 1 cube of vegetable broth parsley For meatballs 250 g minced meat 60 g rice 50 g bread 1 egg

 Tags:  soup meatballs meatball soup