Hearty Cabbage and Meatball Soup

This delightful soup is a comforting dish that combines the goodness of fresh vegetables and seasoned meatballs. It's a perfect meal to warm you up on chilly days, providing both flavor and nourishment. The soup is made with a rich blend of cabbage, carrots, and potatoes, enriched by spiced meatballs and a touch of rice for added texture. You can elevate its taste with your choice of seasonings and a hint of creaminess from sour cream. The recipe is quite versatile and allows for easy swaps depending on your dietary preferences. Whether you're preparing it for a family dinner or enjoying a solo treat, this soup brings a satisfying blend of flavors and aromas to your table. Moreover, it's simple enough to prepare, making it an ideal option even for beginner cooks. Serve it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like dill or parsley to rejuvenate your senses and enjoy a wholesome culinary experience. With its ease of preparation and delicious taste, this cabbage and meatball soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• Ground meat - 500g
• Rice - 100g
• Carrots - 2 medium-sized, grated
• Onion - 1 large, finely chopped
• Potatoes - 3 medium-sized, diced
• Fresh cabbage - 300g, sliced into strips

Spices and Sauces:

• Salt - to taste
• Pepper - to taste
• Optional: bullion cube or stock

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Start by preparing the meatball mixture. Combine the ground meat with finely chopped onion and a sprinkle of salt. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
2. Form small meatballs using the meat mixture. Set them aside on a plate.
3. In a large pot, bring water to a gentle simmer. Add the sliced cabbage strips and grated carrots to the pot. Cook them until they are semi-soft, approximately 5-7 minutes.
4. While the vegetables simmer, peel and dice the potatoes.
5. Add the diced potatoes into the pot along with the rice. Let them cook for about 10 minutes or until the potatoes begin to soften.
6. Carefully place the prepared meatballs into the simmering soup, ensuring they are spaced apart to avoid sticking together.
7. Season the soup with salt and pepper. If desired, add a bullion cube for extra flavor.
8. Continue to simmer the soup until the meatballs are cooked through and the potatoes are tender, which should take another 10-15 minutes.
9. Stir the soup from time to time to prevent the rice and vegetables from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
10. Once cooked, remove from heat and let the soup rest for a few minutes.
11. Serve hot, adding a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh green herbs if desired.

Tips

• Substitution: Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace meatballs with lentils or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
• Thicker Texture: Add an extra tablespoon of rice for a heartier texture.

Nutritions

• Calories: 250 per serving
• Protein: 15g
• Fats: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 28g

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili powder or paprika for a spicy version.
• Savory Touch: Incorporate parmesan cheese into the meatball mixture for extra flavor.
• Asian-Style: Add soy sauce and ginger for an Asian-inspired taste.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Pair with crusty bread or a fresh side salad.
• Garnishes: Fresh dill or parsley and a lemon wedge for an extra zing.

Best Places

1. La Soupe Populaire - A chic space offering inventive soup dishes with a creative twist. Location: Prenzlauer Berg, Berlin, Germany.
2. Soup Peddler - Known for its eclectic menu of comforting soups and smoothies. Location: S Lamar Blvd, Austin, USA.
3. The Soup Spoon - A dedicated soup restaurant focusing on nutritious and delectable soups. Location: Novena Square, Singapore.
4. Gumbo Shop - Famous for its hearty and delicious gumbo soups. Location: St. Peter St, New Orleans, USA.
5. Ivan Ramen - Japanese-inspired ramen soups with a focus on unique flavors. Location: Clinton St, New York, USA.
6. Soup Kitchen International - A legendary spot for soup lovers with famous original recipes. Location: W 55th St, New York, USA.
7. Soup for You - Noted for its innovative and seasonal soup offerings. Location: Carnaby St, London, UK.
8. Zupa Zupa - Specializing in a variety of international soups with local twists. Location: Nowy Świat, Warsaw, Poland.
9. The Soup Place - Known for delicious blends of traditional and international soups. Location: Degraves St, Melbourne, Australia.
10. Soup Culture - Offers a wide selection of mouthwatering soups and broths. Location: Tverskaya St, Moscow, Russia.