Albondigas Soup: A Flavorful Mexican Meatball Soup

by
    

Albondigas Soup, a traditional Mexican meatball soup, is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender meatballs with a rich, savory broth and fresh vegetables. This hearty soup is perfect for family meals, bringing warmth and nourishment to your table. Follow these steps to create a delicious and authentic Albondigas Soup that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Meatballs:

  • 2 tbsp long grain rice
  • 6 oz ground pork (See Note 1)
  • 6 oz lean ground sirloin
  • 1 large egg
  • 3 mint leaves, finely chopped
  • 1/2 tsp Mexican oregano (or regular oregano)
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 medium white onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup ground chicharron (fried pork rinds)

Broth:

  • 1/2 lb tomatoes, roughly chopped
  • 1/2 medium white onion, roughly chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 7 cups beef broth or stock
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 2 cups russet potato, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
  • 3 medium carrots, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 1 large zucchini, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 2 jalapeños, with stem left on and slit from stem to bottom
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • 2 tbsp mint leaves, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatballs:
    • In a small pot, cook the rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, let it cool.
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, ground pork, ground sirloin, egg, finely chopped mint leaves, oregano, salt, pepper, ground cumin, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and ground chicharron.
    • Mix until all ingredients are well combined. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Broth:
    • In a blender, combine the roughly chopped tomatoes, roughly chopped onion, and garlic cloves. Blend until smooth.
    • In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the blended tomato mixture and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly.
    • Add the beef broth or stock and 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt. Bring to a boil.
  3. Add Vegetables and Meatballs:
    • Once the broth is boiling, carefully add the prepared meatballs to the pot.
    • Add the cubed potatoes, carrots, zucchini, and jalapeños to the broth.
    • Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the meatballs are cooked through.
  4. Finish the Soup:
    • Stir in the chopped cilantro and mint leaves.
    • Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed.
  5. Serve:
    • Ladle the soup into bowls, ensuring each serving gets a good mix of meatballs and vegetables.
    • Serve hot, garnished with extra cilantro if desired.

Conclusion

Albondigas Soup is a delightful and hearty Mexican dish that brings together the flavors of tender meatballs, fresh vegetables, and a rich broth. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, this soup is both nourishing and satisfying. Enjoy the warm and comforting taste of this traditional recipe, and share it with your loved ones for a truly special meal.