Mama’s Old-Fashioned Albondigas Meatball Soup Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes compare to Mama’s old-fashioned albondigas meatball soup. This hearty Mexican soup, packed with tender meatballs and fresh vegetables, is the perfect recipe for cozy evenings and family gatherings. Growing up, this soup was a special treat, often made by my mother on weekends. The smell of meatballs simmering with spices and vegetables would fill the house, creating a warmth that was as comforting as the soup itself.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mama’s albondigas soup is a recipe that holds a special place in many families. It’s flavorful, easy to make, and versatile, making it a great dish to serve at gatherings or enjoy as a solo meal. The meatballs are seasoned with classic Mexican spices and infused with rice, giving them a unique texture that makes this dish stand out. Combined with a savory broth, tender vegetables, and fresh herbs, this soup is both satisfying and nourishing.

Recipe Overview

Name of the Recipe

Mama’s Old-Fashioned Albondigas Meatball Soup

Description

A traditional Mexican soup with seasoned meatballs, fresh vegetables, and a rich broth that’s perfect for warming up on chilly days.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1/2 cup uncooked white rice
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, plus extra for garnish
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 cups beef or chicken broth
• 3 medium carrots, sliced
• 3 medium potatoes, cubed
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a lighter meat option, try using ground turkey instead of beef. You can also swap out any vegetables based on preference or availability. For added depth, add a pinch of oregano or fresh mint to the meatball mixture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, rice, egg, onion, cilantro, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
2. Form the meatballs: Using your hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and set them aside on a plate.
3. Make the broth: In a large pot, bring the broth to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the tomato sauce and stir to combine.
4. Add the vegetables: Carefully add the carrots, potatoes, zucchini, and green beans to the pot. Let the vegetables cook for 5-10 minutes.
5. Simmer the meatballs: Gently add the meatballs to the pot. Lower the heat to medium and let the soup simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the meatballs and vegetables are fully cooked and tender.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional cilantro if desired. Enjoy hot, with warm tortillas on the side.

Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 15-20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour

Serving Suggestions

This albondigas meatball soup recipe serves about 6 people. Serve it with warm corn or flour tortillas, a squeeze of lime, and a dash of hot sauce for added flavor. It’s also delicious with a side of Mexican rice or avocado slices.

Nutritional Information

Each serving (based on 6 servings) has approximately:

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fat: 10g

Storage and Reheating

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This soup also freezes well for up to 3 months; just allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, warm the soup on the stove over medium heat until hot, stirring occasionally. If reheating from frozen, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before heating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Simply store in the fridge and reheat before serving.

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add other hearty vegetables, such as celery, corn, or bell peppers, to make this soup even more filling.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty dish that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, Mama’s old-fashioned albondigas meatball soup is the perfect choice. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite, bringing warmth and deliciousness to any table. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out in the comments below. Enjoy!