Name: Albondigas Soup Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of ground beef); 1/2 cup rice (uncooked); 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 egg; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, peeled and chopped; 2 zucchinis, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 6 cups chicken broth; 2 bay leaves; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

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Albondigas Soup is a comforting and flavorful Mexican dish that brings together tender meatballs in a savory, aromatic broth filled with vegetables. The combination of herbs, spices, and the hearty meatballs creates a rich, satisfying soup perfect for any time of year. Whether you enjoy it as a light meal or serve it as a starter, Albondigas Soup is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Albondigas Soup recipe is full of flavor and warmth, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. The meatballs are infused with herbs like mint and cilantro, and the soup itself is made with a flavorful base of tomatoes and vegetables. It’s a deliciously hearty meal that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Plus, it’s a great way to get your fill of vegetables while enjoying a comforting bowl of soup. The rich broth and tender meatballs will leave you wanting more with every spoonful.

Albondigas Soup Recipe

Ingredients

For the meatballs:

1 lb ground beef (or a mix of ground beef)
1/2 cup rice (uncooked)
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 egg

For the soup:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, peeled and chopped
2 zucchinis, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
6 cups chicken broth
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Make the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef (or beef mix), rice, chopped cilantro, mint, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and egg. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Set aside.
Prepare the soup base: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and carrots, and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, bay leaves, cumin, and oregano to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Add the meatballs: Gently drop the meatballs into the simmering broth, making sure they are submerged. Allow the soup to simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the rice in the meatballs has expanded.
Add the chopped zucchini to the soup and continue to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the zucchini is tender.
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Remove from heat, discard the bay leaves, and serve the soup hot. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Use a plant-based ground meat substitute (like lentils or a veggie crumble) to make the meatballs.
Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as corn, green beans, or potatoes for extra flavor and texture.
Spicy Albondigas Soup: Add chopped jalapeños or a teaspoon of chili powder to give the soup a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Albondigas Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired temperature. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

FAQs

Can I use other meats for the meatballs?

Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even lamb for the meatballs. Ground beef is the traditional option, but any ground meat will work.

Can I freeze Albondigas Soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.

Can I use cooked rice instead of uncooked rice in the meatballs?

Yes, you can use cooked rice in the meatballs if you prefer. About 1/2 cup of cooked rice should replace the uncooked rice.

How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?

The meatballs are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F. You can also check if the meatballs are cooked through by cutting one open; it should be completely cooked with no pink in the center.

Can I add more spices to the soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the spices to your preference. You can add extra cumin, chili powder, or smoked paprika for more depth of flavor.

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day. You can also freeze them until you’re ready to cook the soup.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, to make this soup in a slow cooker, add all the ingredients (including the uncooked meatballs) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through.

Can I skip the rice in the meatballs?

Yes, if you prefer, you can skip the rice. It will slightly change the texture of the meatballs, but they will still be delicious.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, vegetable broth is a great substitute if you prefer a vegetarian version of the soup.

What is the best way to serve Albondigas Soup?

Albondigas Soup can be served with warm tortillas, a side of rice, or a light salad. It’s also delicious with a squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top.

Conclusion

Albondigas Soup is a warm and satisfying meal that brings comfort to any table. With its tender meatballs, flavorful broth, and fresh vegetables, it’s the perfect dish for cozy nights or family gatherings. This recipe is easy to customize with different vegetables or spices to suit your taste. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly day or sharing it with loved ones, Albondigas Soup is sure to be a hit.