Mexican Meatball Soup

Mexican Meatball Soup (Albondigas Soup)

Albondigas Soup is a comforting and flavorful Mexican dish featuring tender meatballs (albondigas) simmered in a savory broth with vegetables. It’s perfect for a cozy meal!

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb. ground beef
  • 1/2 lb. ground pork
  • 1/4 cup uncooked white rice
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp. ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 1/4 tsp. black pepper

For the Soup:

  • 1 tbsp. olive oil
  • 1/2 cup onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups beef or chicken broth
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 can (15 oz.) diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce
  • 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 2 zucchinis, diced
  • 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/2 tsp. dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh lime wedges, for serving

Instructions:

  1. Make the Meatballs:
    • In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, uncooked rice, beaten egg, chopped cilantro, chopped mint (if using), onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
    • Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Set aside.
  2. Prepare the Soup:
    • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
    • Add the broth, water, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce to the pot. Stir to combine.
  3. Cook the Meatballs and Vegetables:
    • Gently add the meatballs to the soup. Be careful not to break them apart.
    • Add the sliced carrots, diced zucchinis, and diced potatoes to the pot.
    • Stir in the chopped cilantro and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Simmer:
    • Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
  5. Serve:
    • Ladle the soup into bowls. Serve with fresh lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the soup.

Enjoy this hearty and warming Albondigas Soup with your favorite toppings, such as avocado slices, additional cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream!

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