Savory Albondigas Soup: A Cozy Comfort Recipe

The aroma of albondigas soup is enough to whisk you away to a cozy kitchen filled with laughter and warmth. Picture this: savory meatballs swimming in a rich, flavorful broth, with fresh vegetables dancing around like they’re at a fiesta. Every spoonful is a gentle hug that warms your soul, perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a little comfort.

I can still remember the first time I tried albondigas soup at my abuela’s house. The kitchen was filled with chatter and the delightful sound of bubbling broth. It was one of those moments where food wasn’t just nourishment; it was love served in a bowl. You’ll want to gather everyone around when making this soup because it’s not just a meal; it’s an experience bursting with flavor and joy.

There’s nothing quite like the joy of gathering around the table as family members dig into bowls of albondigas soup, all while sharing stories and laughter that fill the room.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: I usually use 80/20 beef for the best balance of flavor and juiciness.

• Long-Grain Rice: Use uncooked rice; it’ll soak up all that delicious broth while cooking.

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds brightness and freshness to the meatballs.

• Onion: A medium onion gives depth to both the meatballs and broth.

• Garlic: Minced garlic enhances every bite with its aromatic goodness.

• Carrots: They add sweetness and vibrant color to the soup.

• Zucchini: Sliced zucchini brings a lovely texture and subtle flavor.

• Canned Tomatoes: Use diced tomatoes for added acidity that brightens the dish.

• Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth helps control salt levels while adding rich flavor.

• Spices (Cumin & Oregano): These spices kick up the flavor profile dramatically, making each bite unforgettable.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Meatballs: Start by combining ground beef, rice, parsley, minced garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix until just combined but don’t overdo it; we want those meatballs tender!

Shape the Meatballs: Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking and roll the mixture into small balls about an inch in diameter. Lay them out on a plate as you go; they’re going to be swimming soon!

Sauté Vegetables : In a large pot over medium heat, drizzle some olive oil and sauté chopped onions until they become translucent and fragrant. Toss in carrots and zucchini next; cook until slightly softened.

Add Broth & Tomatoes : Pour in your chicken broth along with canned diced tomatoes. Bring this lively mixture to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally—this is where magic starts happening!

Simmer & Cook Meatballs : Gently drop the meatballs into the bubbling broth one by one. Reduce heat to low and let them simmer for about 20 minutes until cooked through—a tantalizing aroma will fill your kitchen!

Taste & Adjust Seasoning : After simmering, taste your soup for seasoning adjustments. Feel free to sprinkle in more salt or herbs if needed—this is your masterpiece after all!

Now that you’ve followed these steps, grab some crusty bread or tortillas for dipping! Enjoy every spoonful of this comforting albondigas soup; don’t forget to share (or not) because once you taste it, you might want it all for yourself!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by making the meatballs, then simmer them in the broth while preparing your veggies. This ensures everything cooks evenly and flavors meld perfectly.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add fresh herbs for an extra flavor boost. Customize the spices to match your family’s taste preferences.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover albondigas soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.

Sometimes, I think my kitchen is a comedy show waiting to happen. Once, I accidentally added too much cumin to my albondigas soup, and my friends still rave about it—now that’s what I call a memorable cooking moment!

FAQ

What is albondigas soup?

Albondigas soup is a traditional Mexican meatball soup made with flavorful broth and vegetables.

Can I make albondigas soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead; flavors intensify when allowed to sit overnight in the fridge.

What should I serve with albondigas soup?

Serve it with crusty bread or warm tortillas for a complete meal that everyone will love.

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Albondigas Soup

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Albondigas soup is a heartwarming Mexican dish that combines savory meatballs with vibrant vegetables in a rich, flavorful broth. Each spoonful offers a comforting embrace, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. This easy-to-make recipe brings everyone together with its delightful aroma and satisfying taste, creating unforgettable moments around the dinner table.

• Author: Logan Reed
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
• 1/2 cup uncooked long-grain rice
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix ground beef, rice, parsley, garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper until combined.
2. Wet your hands and roll the mixture into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter). Set aside.
3. In a large pot over medium heat, sauté diced onion in olive oil until translucent. Add carrots and zucchini; cook until slightly softened.
4. Pour in chicken broth and canned tomatoes; bring to a gentle boil.
5. Carefully drop meatballs into the boiling broth. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 20 minutes until fully cooked.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 80mg