Meatball soup
Meatball Soup - A Comforting Delight
Meatball soup is one of those recipes that reminds us of Sunday meals in our family, where the scent of fresh vegetables and meat intertwined with the aroma of fresh lovage. This delicious recipe is not only nourishing but also steeped in tradition. Whether we enjoy it on chilly winter days or spring evenings, each bowl of meatball soup reminds us that shared meals are the most precious.
Total preparation time: 1 hour
Servings: 6-8
Required Ingredients
For the soup:
- 1 celery root (approximately 200 g)
- 1 parsley root (approximately 100 g)
- 2-3 carrots (approximately 200 g)
- 1 bell pepper (approximately 150 g)
- 1 kohlrabi (approximately 200 g)
- 1 tomato (approximately 100 g)
- 1 onion (approximately 100 g)
- 3-4 cloves of garlic
- 200 ml tomato puree (or 2-3 tablespoons of tomato paste)
- 4 tablespoons of vinegar (or bors, to taste)
- Fresh lovage (a bunch)
- Fresh parsley (a bunch)
- 1 tablespoon of oil (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water (approximately 2 liters)
For the meatballs:
- 700 g ground chicken
- 1 egg
- 150 g rice (washed)
- 1 large onion (finely chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step by Step: Preparing Meatball Soup
Step 1: Preparing the Vegetables
Start by peeling the vegetables. Cut the celery, parsley root, carrots, bell pepper, kohlrabi, and tomato into small cubes. Chop the onion finely, and gently crush the garlic with the flat side of a knife. These vegetables will form the flavorful base of your soup.
Step 2: Boiling the Vegetables
In a large pot, add 2 liters of water and a pinch of salt. Bring the peeled and chopped vegetables to a boil. Add the tomato puree and lovage (you can use both fresh and dried lovage). Let the vegetables simmer over medium heat for about 30 minutes, until they become tender.
Step 3: Preparing the Meatballs
Meanwhile, let's prepare the meatballs. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken with the chopped onion, whole egg, washed rice, salt, and pepper. Mix the ingredients well until they become homogeneous. It’s important to use fresh, quality meat to achieve juicy meatballs.
Step 4: Forming the Meatballs
After the vegetables have boiled for 30 minutes, form small balls (meatballs) from the meat mixture, about 2-3 cm in diameter. Carefully add the meatballs to the pot with the vegetables. Let them cook together for another 20 minutes. If desired, you can add a tablespoon of oil for a richer flavor.
Step 5: Flavoring the Soup
Once the meatballs are cooked, turn off the heat to add the vinegar or bors. Before adding the sour cream, mix it with two tablespoons of flour to prevent lumps from forming. Temper the sour cream with a little hot liquid from the soup, stirring constantly. Then, pour the mixture into the pot.
Step 6: Finishing and Serving
Add the crushed garlic and chopped parsley just before serving. Enjoy the meatball soup hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta. The vinegar or bors will add a pleasant acidity, while the sour cream will make the soup creamy and comforting.
Chef's Tip
If you desire an even more intense flavor, you can add a bay leaf while boiling the vegetables. You can also experiment with different types of meat—pork or beef can bring a unique flavor. For a spicier version, add a bit of hot pepper or sweet paprika.
Nutritional Benefits
Meatball soup is an excellent choice for a healthy meal. It is rich in protein due to the chicken and rice, while the vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals. It is also a low-calorie recipe, with approximately 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the amount of sour cream added.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of meat for the meatballs?
Yes, you can use pork, beef, or even turkey. Each type of meat will give a different flavor to the soup.
How can I store the meatball soup?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It is recommended to reheat it on the stove, adding a little water if it is too concentrated.
What side dish pairs best with meatball soup?
A slice of fresh bread or polenta are the most popular choices, but you can also opt for croutons for added texture.
Serving Suggestions
For an extra burst of flavor, you can drizzle a few drops of extra virgin olive oil on top of the soup before serving. A green salad with tomatoes and onion can be a refreshing and healthy accompaniment.
I hope this meatball soup recipe inspires you to make it! Cooking is an art that allows us to express ourselves and share love with those around us. Savor every bite and enjoy the moments spent with your loved ones!
Ingredients: 1 celery, parsley root, 2-3 carrots, 1 bell pepper, 1 kohlrabi, 1 tomato, 1 onion, 3-4 cloves of garlic, broth, vinegar or borscht, lovage and fresh parsley, sour cream. Meatballs: 700 g minced chicken, 1 egg, 150 g rice, 1 large onion, salt, pepper.
