Simple Meatball Soup Recipe

This delightful meatball soup is both comforting and delicious, perfect for a cozy meal. The combination of succulent pork meatballs and tender vegetables cooked in a savory broth is sure to satisfy. The preparation is straightforward, making it an ideal choice for a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends. The key ingredients bring out rich flavors that meld beautifully, making each spoonful a true delight. As the soup simmers, the aromas fill the kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere. With its versatile nature, you can easily tweak the spices to suit your taste. Whether you're an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish offers easy well-defined steps. Moreover, it's nourishing and fulfilling, warming you up on a chilly day. Serve it with a dollop of sour cream or alongside crusty bread to enhance the experience. This meatball soup is bound to be a regular in your recipe rotation.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2.5-3 liters of water
500 g ground pork
8-9 medium-sized potatoes
3 large carrots
2 onions
2 cloves of garlic
50 g oil

Spices and Seasonings

Bay leaves
Allspice berries
Ground pepper
Salt to taste

Preparation Time

Total time: 50 minutes
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Pot: Fill a large pot with 2.5-3 liters of water, depending on how much soup you desire.
Season the Meat: In a bowl, combine the ground pork with salt, ground pepper, and crushed garlic. Mix thoroughly.
Form Meatballs: Roll the seasoned meat into small balls, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking.
Boil the Water: Bring the pot of water to a boil over medium-high heat.
Cook the Meatballs: Once boiling, add the meatballs carefully to the water. Let them cook for 10-15 minutes to release natural flavors into the broth.
Add Flavorings: Introduce bay leaves and allspice berries early to infuse the broth with aromatic spices.
Taste Test: After 10-15 minutes, taste the broth and adjust salt and spices to your preference.
Add Potatoes: Peel and dice the potatoes, adding them to the pot. Consider around 2 medium potatoes per person.
Cook Until Soft: Allow the potatoes to cook until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Prepare Vegetables: While the potatoes are cooking, peel and chop the onions and carrots.
Sauté the Onions: In a pan, heat the oil over low heat and add the chopped onions. Cook until they turn translucent and slightly golden.
Add Carrots: Incorporate the carrots into the pan, sautéing until they take on a light golden hue.
Combine Everything: Once onions and carrots are ready, add them to the pot with the meatballs and potatoes.
Final Simmer: Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing all flavors to meld.
Check Potatoes: Ensure the potatoes have softened before proceeding.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste once more to decide if additional seasoning is needed.
Serve Hot: Pour the soup into bowls while hot, optionally garnishing with a dollop of sour cream.
Final Touch: Serve immediately, completing with fresh bread if desired.
Enjoy Your Meal: Indulge in the comforting warmth and rich flavors.
Store Leftovers: Refrigerate any leftovers for another day or share with friends.

Tips

Meatball Texture: Adding an egg to the meat mixture can improve binding if desired.
Skim Impurities: As the meatballs cook, skim off any foam for a clearer broth.
Herb Variations: Consider adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley for extra flavor.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Protein: 24g
Fats: 20g
Carbs: 50g

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Substitute meatballs with chickpea balls for a plant-based alternative.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Gluten-Free: Ensure all seasonings and additives are gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this hearty soup with crusty whole grain bread.
Garnish with fresh herbs for added freshness.
Accompany with a side salad for a balanced meal.

Best Places

Bar Cerveseria Catalana - Known for its traditional and flavorful meatball soups. Location: Carrer de Mallorca, 236, Barcelona, Spain.
Berthillon - Famous for their unique take on classic soups. Location: 31 Rue Saint-Louis en l'Île, Paris, France.
Bors Gasztrobár - Offers innovative meatball dishes. Location: Kazinczy u. 14, Budapest, Hungary.
Giolitti - Comforting Italian soups and meatball specialties. Location: Via degli Uffici del Vicario, 40, Rome, Italy.
Grom - A modern twist on traditional meatball soups. Location: Via del Campanile, Rome, Italy.
Pastelería Escribà - Renowned for great pastries and soups. Location: Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, 546, Barcelona, Spain.
Stiftskeller St. Peter - A cozy spot offering traditional hearty soups. Location: St. Peter Bezirk 1/4, Salzburg, Austria.
The Ledbury - Famous for their exquisite meatball dishes. Location: 127 Ledbury Rd, London, UK.
Tosca Café - Offers a range of meatball varieties. Location: 242 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, USA.
Wong Kei - Known for efficient service and great soups. Location: 41-43 Wardour St, London, UK.