Hearty Meatball and Vegetable Soup

This hearty soup combines the savory flavors of tender meatballs and a variety of fresh vegetables. Ideal for chilly days, it's comforting and nourishing, bringing warmth to every spoonful. The colorful array of vegetables including carrots, zucchini, broccoli, and cauliflower, beautifully complements the hearty meatballs. The soup is simmered in a rich broth, which enhances the flavors and ensures every bite is delightful. The addition of dill at the end adds a fresh and aromatic touch. This dish is not only delicious but also rich in nutrients, making it perfect for anyone seeking a balanced meal. Despite the list of ingredients, the preparation is straightforward. It's a delightful experience for both seasoned cooks and beginners. Enjoy this dish with family or friends, as it serves as a heartwarming meal for gatherings.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 grated carrots
2 stalks of celery (sliced)
1 small zucchini (sliced into rounds)
1 small broccoli (divided into florets)
1 small cauliflower (divided into florets)
4 potatoes (sliced)
1 whole onion
2.5 liters of meat broth
Salt
Pepper
Dill

For the Meatballs

500 g ground meat
1 egg
1 tablespoon sour cream
Salt
Pepper
Herbs, such as Santa Maria Persillade

Preparation Time

Total: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Vegetables: Grate the carrots and slice the zucchini, broccoli, cauliflower, and potatoes as per instructions. These vegetables will provide the base flavors for your soup.
Heat the Broth: In a large pot, bring the meat broth to a boil. The broth serves as the main liquid for the soup, adding depth and richness.
Start with Carrots: Add the grated carrots to the boiling broth and cook for about 5 minutes. This step allows the carrots to soften and release their sweetness into the broth.
Add More Vegetables: Introduce the sliced celery, zucchini rounds, broccoli florets, and cauliflower florets into the pot. Let them cook for about 10 minutes, or until they begin to soften.
Incorporate Potatoes: Add the sliced potatoes to the pot, as these require more time to become tender.
Prepare Meatballs: In a separate bowl, combine the ground meat with the egg, sour cream, salt, pepper, and herbs. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into small, even-sized meatballs. These will cook quickly in the hot broth.
Add Meatballs to Soup: Carefully drop the meatballs into the simmering soup, ensuring they are evenly spread throughout the pot.
Add Onion: Place a whole onion into the pot. This will enhance the flavor of the broth. Remove it before serving, as it will have done its job by imparting its flavor.
Cook Until Tender: Continue simmering the soup for another 5 to 10 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Finish with Dill: Once the soup is cooked, remove it from the heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped dill. This herb adds a refreshing finish to the soup.
Serve Hot: Enjoy your soup with a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess and richness. This soup is best served hot, warming both the body and soul.

Tips

Fresh Ingredients: Ensure the vegetables are fresh for the best flavor and nutrition.
Meatball Size: Make sure the meatballs are small and evenly sized to ensure they cook through properly.
Broth Choice: A good quality meat broth will significantly enhance the soup's flavor.
Substitutions: Use vegetable broth for a lighter version or substitute with other favorite vegetables as per taste.

Nutritions

Calories: 250 per serving
Protein: 18g
Fats: 10g
Carbs: 28g

Variations

Vegetarian Alternative: Use tofu or lentils instead of meat for a vegetarian version.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
Pair with a light white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Best Places

Cafe de Flore - A classic café known for its diverse menu and charming atmosphere. Location: 172 Boulevard Saint-Germain, Paris, France.

The Soup Kitchen - Famous for its wide variety of delicious soups. Location: 168 Bath St, Glasgow, Scotland.

Broth Bar & Restaurant - Specializing in hearty broths and fresh ingredients. Location: 118 William St, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.

The Brisbane Cafe - A cozy place with a focus on local and organic produce. Location: 123 Queen St, Brisbane, Australia.

Soup & Bread - A homely spot offering comforting soups made from scratch. Location: 345 Bowery, New York, USA.

Copenhagen's Soup House - Known for its innovative takes on traditional soups. Location: Nyhavn 17, Copenhagen, Denmark.

Lisbon Ladle - A delightful eatery serving fresh and aromatic soups. Location: Rua dos Correeiros 215, Lisbon, Portugal.

Tokyo Bowl Bar - Offering a unique Japanese spin on classic soups. Location: 4-2 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo, Japan.

Berlin Brothery - Known for its hearty and wholesome soup selections. Location: 432 Rosenthaler Str., Berlin, Germany.

Santiago Soup Cafe - A local favorite for traditional and fusion soups. Location: Av. Providencia 2675, Santiago, Chile.