Recipe for Mexican Meatball Soup Albondigas: A Delicious and Comforting Staple
Guide or Summary：IngredientsMeatballs (Albondigas)Soup BaseGarnishesInstructionsPreparing the MeatballsPreparing the SoupServing the SoupNestled in the hear……
Guide or Summary：
- Ingredients
- Meatballs (Albondigas)
- Soup Base
- Garnishes
- Instructions
- Preparing the Meatballs
- Preparing the Soup
- Serving the Soup
Nestled in the heart of Mexican cuisine, Albondigas or Mexican Meatball Soup is a dish that epitomizes the fusion of flavors that defines this vibrant and diverse culinary tradition. This rich and comforting soup is a staple in many Mexican households, and it's a dish that not only satisfies hunger but also nourishes the soul with its aromatic and savory essence.
Ingredients
To craft this delightful soup, you'll need a mix of traditional ingredients that blend seamlessly to create a dish that's both hearty and flavorful. Here's a list of essential components:
Meatballs (Albondigas)
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup finely chopped tomato
- 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
Soup Base
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnishes
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
- Crumbled queso fresco (optional)
- Tortilla chips or toasted corn tortillas, cut into strips (optional)
Instructions
Preparing the Meatballs
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, tomato, cilantro, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, black pepper, breadcrumbs, and eggs. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Using your hands, form the mixture into small to medium-sized meatballs, slightly larger than a golf ball. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the oven is preheated, bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes, or until they are fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Preparing the Soup
1. In a large pot, heat a little bit of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Add the can of diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. Once the soup is simmering, add the cooked meatballs to the pot. Allow the meatballs to cook in the soup for about 10 minutes, or until they are heated through and fully submerged in the broth.
Serving the Soup
1. To serve, ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, and a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco if desired. You can also serve with tortilla chips or toasted corn tortilla strips cut into strips for an extra crunch.
Mexican Meatball Soup Albondigas is a dish that's both comforting and flavorful, offering a taste of Mexico right in your own home. With its rich blend of spices, tender meatballs, and a hearty broth, this soup is a perfect example of the delicious and diverse culinary traditions of Mexico. Whether enjoyed as a comforting meal on a chilly day or as a festive dish during a gathering, Albondigas is a dish that's sure to please and satisfy. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to create a flavorful and heartwarming bowl of Mexican Meatball Soup Albondigas. Enjoy!