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Albondigas Mexican Meatball Soup Recipe

Albondigas Mexican Meatball Soup Recipe
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Albondigas Mexican Meatball Soup is a comforting and hearty dish featuring tender meatballs simmered in a flavorful tomato-based broth with fresh vegetables and authentic Mexican spices. Perfect for cozy dinners, this nutritious soup combines protein, veggies, and warming flavors in an easy-to-make recipe that can be customized to suit your taste and dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Meatballs

  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey
  • 1/2 cup cooked white rice
  • 1/4 cup finely minced onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 beaten egg
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • Salt to taste

For the Broth and Soup

  • 1 tbsp cooking oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 1 medium zucchini, diced
  • 2 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped or 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 6 cups beef or chicken broth
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Optional Variations and Garnishes

  • Diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers in adobo (for spicy kick)
  • Vegetable broth and chickpea or black bean balls (for vegetarian version)
  • Cauliflower rice (low-carb option)
  • Corn, spinach, or potatoes (extra veggies)
  • Shredded queso fresco or Monterey Jack cheese (cheesy finish)
  • Squeeze of lime, diced avocado, Mexican crema (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef or turkey with cooked rice, minced onion, garlic, chopped cilantro, beaten egg, cumin, and salt. Mix gently until just combined to keep meatballs tender. Shape the mixture into small, golf ball-sized meatballs and set aside.
  2. Make the Broth: Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté diced onion, garlic, carrots, and zucchini until softened and fragrant. Stir in chopped tomatoes or tomato sauce. Add broth, oregano, black pepper, and salt to taste. Bring to a gentle boil.
  3. Simmer the Meatballs: Carefully add the meatballs to the simmering broth one at a time. Reduce heat to low and let everything cook gently for 25-30 minutes until meatballs are cooked through and flavors meld.
  4. Finish and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed. Stir in fresh chopped cilantro just before serving. Ladle soup into bowls, ensuring each serving has broth and a few meatballs for balance. Garnish with additional cilantro, a squeeze of lime, diced avocado, or crumbled cheese as desired.

Notes

  • Do not overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
  • Use fresh herbs like cilantro and parsley for authentic flavor.
  • Simmer the soup gently to prevent meatballs from breaking apart.
  • Cook rice separately if you prefer it less soft and prevent it from absorbing too much broth.
  • Adjust the spice level by adding chili peppers, jalapeños, or chipotle peppers to taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: Albondigas soup, Mexican meatball soup, comfort food, gluten free soup, hearty soup, Mexican cuisine, homemade meatballs, easy soup recipe

Find it online: https://tastebudtrek.com/albondigas-mexican-meatball-soup-recipe/