Description
Mexican Meatball Soup, or Albondigas Soup, is a hearty and flavorful dish featuring tender meatballs simmered in a savory broth filled with vegetables and spices. It’s the perfect comfort food, whether you’re warming up on a chilly evening or looking for a satisfying, one-pot meal. Packed with bold Mexican flavors, this soup is as wholesome as it is delicious!
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Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef or chicken
- 1/3 cup uncooked rice
- 1 egg
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 6 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen corn
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Meatballs
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef or chicken, uncooked rice, egg, minced garlic, cilantro, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until just combined. Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Set them aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
3. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in the cumin and chili powder, cooking for another 30 seconds to release the spices’ aroma.
Step 3: Build the Broth
5. Add the broth, diced tomatoes, carrots, potatoes, zucchini, and corn to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Step 4: Cook the Meatballs
6. Gently drop the prepared meatballs into the simmering broth. Cover and let the soup cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs and rice are fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
7. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Ladle it into bowls, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with lime wedges for a zesty finish.
Notes
- Don’t Overmix the Meatballs: Overworking the mixture can make the meatballs tough, so mix gently.
- Customize Your Veggies: Swap in green beans, spinach, or sweet potatoes based on what you have.
- Make It Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne if you like some heat.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Cuisine: Mexican