Beef and Pork Meatball Soup with Leeks and Pickles

This hearty and warming soup combines the flavors of tender beef and pork meatballs with the delicate sweetness of leeks and the tang of pickled cucumbers. It's a delightful meal that's both comforting and satisfying, making it perfect for any season. The soup is enriched with vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and leeks that add texture and flavor. Infused with aromatic bay leaves and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, this dish is elevated with a creamy finish of sour cream. Whether enjoyed as a starter or a main dish, this soup is easy to make and even easier to savor. The meatballs are soft and juicy, providing a burst of flavor with every bite. Tailored with spices like salt and pepper, the soup suits a wide range of palates. Serve it hot with a side of crusty bread or a light salad for a balanced meal. Experience a fusion of textures and flavors that bring both comfort and joy.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 250 g ground beef
• 250 g ground pork
• 1 egg
• 2 leek stalks
• 4 potatoes
• 2 carrots
• 2 pickled cucumbers
• 50 g butter

Spices and Herbs:

• Salt
• Pepper
• Bay leaves
• Fresh parsley

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Melt butter in a large pot and sauté grated carrots until they start to soften.
2. Add 2 liters of water to the carrots and bring to a boil.
3. Slice leek stalks into rings and sauté them in butter until they soften. Add the leeks to the pot with carrots.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Form small meatballs from the mixture and brown them in a pan with butter.
6. Transfer the meatballs to the pot, letting them simmer gently.
7. As the meatballs cook, remove any foam that forms at the top to keep the soup clear.
8. Add bay leaves, whole peppercorns, and a bunch of fresh parsley to the simmering pot for added aroma.
9. Cut potatoes into strips and add to the pot; cook until they soften.
10. When the potatoes are tender, grate or slice the pickles into strips and add them to the soup.
11. Allow the flavors to meld together for a few more minutes before removing the bay leaves.
12. Add a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley just before serving.
13. Serve hot and enjoy your comforting bowl of soup.

Tips

• Use fresh vegetables for the best flavor.
• Substitute beef or pork with turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• For a thicker soup, consider adding a spoonful of flour or cornstarch to the broth.

Nutrition

• Calories: 350 kcal per serving
• Protein: 18 g
• Fats: 23 g
• Carbs: 15 g

Variations

• For a vegetarian twist, substitute meat with chickpeas or tofu.
• Add spices like paprika or cumin for extra heat.
• Swap pickled cucumbers with fermented cabbage for a sour flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with crusty bread for dipping.
• Serve alongside a light green salad for a balanced meal.

Best Places

• Hungary's Delight - Traditional European flavors with a modern twist. Location: 123 Buda St, Budapest, Hungary.
• Soup Spectacle - Renowned for creative soup blends. Location: 45 Wellington Ave, Toronto, Canada.
• Gourmet Bowls - Wholesome and hearty soups in a cozy setting. Location: 92 Broome St, New York, USA.
• Savory Slices - A charming spot for succulent soups. Location: 78 Rue Cler, Paris, France.
• The Soup Kitchen - Famous for their classic meatball soup. Location: 110 King St, London, UK.
• Eastern Elixir - Bringing Eastern European warmth to soups. Location: 77 Market Square, Krakow, Poland.
• Nordic Bites - A place where tradition meets innovation. Location: 32 Skagen Rd, Oslo, Norway.
• Flavor House - Delicacies served with finesse. Location: 12 Piazza del Duomo, Milan, Italy.
• Comfort Corner - Known for its comforting soup varieties. Location: 67 Park St, Sydney, Australia.
• Mediterranean Mirth - Dive into Mediterranean-inspired soups. Location: 5 Plaka Neighbourhood, Athens, Greece.

Enjoy this soul-soothing soup and explore the variety of tastes and textures it offers. Happy cooking!