Albondigas(Meatball Soup)
Albondigas Meatball Soup is a flavorful, hearty dish featuring tender meatballs simmered in a aromatic broth with fresh herbs and vegetables. Its vibrant flavors and comforting nature make it perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a delightful blend of savory, herbal, and fresh tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine 2 large diced tomatoes, 2 diced green onions, 1.5 tablespoons chopped cilantro, 1.5 tablespoons chopped mint, 1.5 tablespoons chopped oregano, 2 cloves minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- In a separate large soup pot, add the remaining diced tomatoes, green onions, cilantro, mint, oregano, garlic, and season with salt and pepper.
- Pour approximately 4 quarts of water into the pot and add 1 heaping tablespoon of flour.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, egg, and 1 heaping tablespoon of flour.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs and add them to the boiling broth.
- Reduce heat and simmer until the meatballs are cooked through and flavors meld, about 20-30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some grated cheese into the meatball mixture or incorporating diced vegetables like bell peppers. If you're short on fresh herbs, dried versions can work too; just use a third of the amount. Adjust the spice level by adding red pepper flakes or using a spicier variety of green onion. Serve with a side of Spicy Spanish Rice for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Albondigas hot, garnished with additional chopped cilantro or mint for a fresh touch. This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or warm tortillas. For a more complete meal, consider serving it alongside South Of The Border Salad or Tostadas for a delightful contrast in textures.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Albondigas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if the broth thickens. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months; just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Albondigas(Meatball Soup) contains roughly 1895 calories, with 77g protein, 262g carbohydrates, and 59g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (153% of the Daily Value), iron (152% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (67% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1242mg per serving (54% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for the meatballs?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or pork can be great substitutes for ground beef. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the meat used, so ensure the meatballs are fully cooked through.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, Albondigas can be made ahead of time. The flavors actually improve as it sits. Just prepare the soup and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving for the best taste.
What can I add to the soup for extra flavor?
You can enhance the soup with additional spices like cumin or smoked paprika, and even a splash of lime juice for brightness. Adding vegetables like carrots or zucchini can also boost the nutritional value and flavor profile.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).