Spicy Mexican Albóndigas Soup

Mexican Albóndigas Soup Mexican Albóndigas Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish, filled with tender meatballs and vibrant vegetables. This traditional soup is the perfect remedy on cold days, offering a taste of Mexican cuisine in every spoonful. Whether served as a main course or a hearty appetizer, Albóndigas Soup is sure to be a family favorite. Ingredients For the Meatballs: 1 pound ground beef or turkey 1/4 cup uncooked white rice 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro 1 egg 2 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin Salt and pepper to taste For the Soup: 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 medium onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 carrots, sliced 2 stalks celery, sliced 1 zucchini, diced 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes 6 cups chicken or beef broth 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro Salt and pepper to taste Cooking Method Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, uncooked rice, chopped cilantro, egg, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and set aside. Make the Soup: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent. Add the carrots and celery, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until they begin to soften. Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken or beef broth, oregano, and cumin. Bring the mixture to a boil. Cook the Meatballs: Gently add the prepared meatballs to the boiling soup. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes, allowing the meatballs to cook through and the flavors to meld. Add the Vegetables: Add the diced zucchini to the soup and cook for an additional 10 minutes until the zucchini is tender. Stir in the fresh cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, ensuring each serving has a generous portion of meatballs and vegetables. Optionally, garnish with extra cilantro before serving. Nutritional Value and Pairings Mexican Albóndigas Soup is a balanced meal that is rich in protein, thanks to the meatballs, while the assortment of vegetables provides essential vitamins and minerals. With its moderate carbohydrate content from the rice and vegetables, this soup is a wholesome choice for those looking to maintain a nutritious diet. To complement this hearty soup, consider serving it with a side of warm corn tortillas or crusty bread. For a refreshing salad, a simple avocado and tomato salad dressed with lime juice pairs beautifully. As for drinks, a chilled glass of horchata or a light lager beer makes an excellent accompaniment, adding to the authentic Mexican dining experience.