Meatball Soup with Pickled Cucumbers

This flavorful meatball soup with pickled cucumbers is a delightful dish that brings together hearty and comforting ingredients. It's a perfect meal for a cozy evening, providing warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful. The combination of tender meatballs, savory vegetables, and tangy pickled cucumbers creates a unique medley of flavors that is both refreshing and comforting. The meatballs are made with seasoned ground meat and a hint of herbs, adding richness to the soup. The potatoes and carrots give the soup a rustic touch, while the onions enhance the broth with their aromatic sweetness. The final flourish of fresh herbs and a dollop of cream adds freshness and creaminess, making this dish a wholesome delight. It’s an ideal recipe for those looking to enjoy a warm, home-cooked meal that is simple to make yet full of distinctive flavors. Perfect for family gatherings or simply enjoying on your own, this soup is bound to become a favorite in your recipe book.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

500 g ground meat
5 potatoes
3 pickled cucumbers
2 carrots
1 onion
1 egg

Spices and Seasonings

Salt
Pepper
Parsley or dill
Water

Preparation Time

Total Time: 40 minutes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables: Peel and cube the potatoes, and grate the carrots using a coarse grater. Place them in a large pot of water and bring to a boil over medium heat.
Mix the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat with the egg, finely chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
Form the Meatballs: Once the mixture is ready, shape it into small, even-sized balls using your hands. The size should be approximately that of a walnut to ensure even cooking.
Cook the Vegetables: Allow the potatoes and carrots to boil for about 10 minutes until they begin to soften.
Add the Meatballs: Gently drop the meatballs into the boiling soup. Let them cook for approximately 10-15 minutes, or until they are cooked through.
Season the Soup: Taste the broth and add more salt and pepper as needed to enhance the flavors.
Slice the Cucumbers: Cut the pickled cucumbers into thin sticks or slices and add them to the soup for a zingy twist.
Finish the Soup: Let the soup simmer gently for a few additional minutes, allowing all flavors to meld together.
Serve with Garnish: When serving, sprinkle the soup with freshly chopped parsley or dill for a burst of color and flavor.
Optional Toppings: Add a spoonful of cream to each bowl for a creamy finish.

Tips

Substitute fresh cucumbers if pickled aren’t available; just slice them thinly.
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili flakes to the meatball mixture.
Use vegetable broth instead of water for a richer flavor.

Nutrition

Calories: 370 per serving
Protein: 25g
Fats: 15g
Carbs: 40g

Variations

Use chicken or turkey for the meatballs if you prefer a lighter flavor.
Make it vegetarian by replacing meatballs with plant-based alternatives.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with rustic bread or crusty baguette.
Serve with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.

Best Places

Latvian Culinary Treats - Known for its hearty Latvian dishes. Location: Riga Central Market, Riga, Latvia.
Eastern Flavors Restaurant - Offers a selection of Eastern European delights. Location: 123 Main St, Vilnius, Lithuania.
Baltic Gourmet Café - Specializes in Baltic region cuisines. Location: 456 Elm Ave, Tallinn, Estonia.
Taste of Latvia - Recognized for traditional Latvian soups and stews. Location: 789 Oak Rd, Stockholm, Sweden.
Nordic Eats - Focuses on Nordic and Baltic dishes. Location: Baker Street, Oslo, Norway.
Pickle & Meatball Delights - Famous for innovative soup dishes. Location: King’s Road, London, England.
Soup & Beyond - Known for a variety of hearty soups. Location: 10 North Ave, New York, USA.
Global Cuisine Café - Offers a fusion of global flavors. Location: Jumeirah Beach, Dubai, UAE.
The Soup House - Focuses on gourmet soups from around the world. Location: Wellington St, Dublin, Ireland.
Café Baltic - Serving a wide range of Baltic specialties. Location: Downtown, Helsinki, Finland.