Savory Albondigas Soup: A Heartwarming Comfort Dish

Albondigas soup is a delightful dish that warms you from the inside out, with its tender meatballs swimming in a savory broth. The aroma of simmering spices and fresh herbs fills the kitchen, promising a comforting experience that’s hard to resist.

As I ladle this vibrant soup into bowls, I can’t help but reminisce about cozy family dinners where laughter echoed, and everyone eagerly awaited their share of this heartwarming meal. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a little extra love, albondigas soup delivers on flavor and nostalgia.

One chilly evening, my friend Maria made this soup, and we couldn’t stop raving about the hearty meatballs. It became our go-to recipe for gatherings ever since.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for tender meatballs without excess grease.

• Rice: Use uncooked white rice; it will absorb the flavors while cooking.

• Fresh Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a fragrant touch that brightens up the broth.

• Onion: Finely chopped onion enhances sweetness in the broth.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves create an aromatic base full of flavor.

• Tomato Sauce: Adds richness and depth to the soup’s flavor profile.

• Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium vegetable broth to control saltiness while adding flavor.

• Spices (Cumin, Oregano): These spices provide warmth and depth to your soup.

• Carrots and Zucchini: Chopped carrots and zucchini contribute texture and nutrition.

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

Let’s Make it together

Create the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, uncooked rice, chopped onion, garlic, cilantro, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.

Form Meatballs: Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking. Shape the mixture into small meatballs about one inch in diameter. Set aside on a plate.

Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté chopped carrots and zucchini until they soften slightly—about five minutes—releasing their natural sweetness.

Add Tomato Sauce and Broth: Pour in tomato sauce along with vegetable broth. Stir well to combine the flavors while bringing it to a gentle simmer.

Cook Meatballs**: Carefully add formed meatballs into the simmering broth. Allow them to cook for about 20 minutes or until they float to the surface and are no longer pink inside.

Finishing Touches**: Taste the soup for seasoning adjustments; you may want more salt or pepper. Add fresh cilantro just before serving for an added burst of freshness.

Now that you’ve created this fantastic albondigas soup filled with love and flavor, gather around the table! Enjoy your delicious creation with warm crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal experience!

You Must Know

• Albondigas soup is not just comforting; it’s packed with flavors that dance on your palate
• The delightful aroma will have your neighbors knocking at your door, and you’ll be the star of the dinner table
• Don’t forget to enjoy it with a side of warm tortillas for dipping!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then brown your meatballs before simmering them in the broth for rich flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add vegetables like zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover albondigas soup in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Chef's Helpful Tips

• For perfect meatballs, mix ground meat with breadcrumbs and herbs without overworking it
• Ensure your broth is well-seasoned, as it enhances the entire dish
• Serve with fresh cilantro and lime for added brightness and flavor

The first time I made albondigas soup, my kids declared me a culinary genius, which was a huge morale booster after a week of burnt toast!

FAQ

What’s the best way to season albondigas soup?

Use fresh herbs like cilantro and spices such as cumin to enhance flavor.

Can I make albondigas soup ahead of time?

Yes, it’s even better when made a day in advance as flavors meld beautifully.

What can I serve with albondigas soup?

Serve it with warm tortillas or crusty bread to soak up that delicious broth.

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Savory Albondigas Soup

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Indulge in a warm bowl of albondigas soup, where tender meatballs swim in a rich and savory broth. This delightful dish combines aromatic spices, fresh herbs, and colorful vegetables to create a comforting meal perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. With its vibrant flavors and hearty texture, albondigas soup not only satisfies your hunger but also warms your heart with nostalgic memories of shared moments around the dinner table.

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

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1/2 cup uncooked white rice
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 cup carrots, chopped
• 1 cup zucchini, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, uncooked rice, cilantro, onion, garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. With slightly wet hands to prevent sticking, shape the mixture into small meatballs (about one inch in diameter) and set aside.
3. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the carrots and zucchini; sauté for about five minutes until they begin to soften.
4. Stir in the tomato sauce and vegetable broth; bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Carefully add the meatballs to the simmering broth. Cook for approximately 20 minutes or until the meatballs float and are no longer pink inside.
6. Adjust seasoning if necessary; add fresh cilantro just before serving.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 285
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg