Albondigas Soup (Mexican Meatball Soup)

 A Heartwarming Guide to Mexican Albondigas Soup

If you’re craving a comforting bowl of soup that’s loaded with flavor and perfect for any occasion, Mexican Albondigas Soup is your answer. Known for its flavorful meatballs and vibrant vegetables, this traditional dish combines wholesome ingredients into a hearty meal. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know to make this dish shine in your kitchen.

The Magic of Albondigas Soup

Albondigas, meaning “meatballs” in Spanish, is a dish celebrated across Mexico for its versatility and deliciousness. The recipe brings together tender, spiced meatballs with a tomato-infused broth, delivering a balance of rich flavors and comforting textures. Whether you’re feeding a family or impressing guests, this soup is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

The Essential Ingredients

To recreate this classic recipe, you’ll need two key elements: the meatballs and the soup base. Each component is crafted with care to ensure a perfect blend of flavors.

For the Meatballs:

• Ground Beef: The base of your meatballs. Opt for high-quality lean ground beef for the best results.
• Egg: Acts as a binder to keep your meatballs from falling apart.
• Garlic and Cilantro: Fresh garlic and chopped cilantro infuse the meat with authentic Mexican flavors.
• Spices: Ground cumin, salt, and pepper bring warmth and depth.
• Optional Rice: Adding cooked rice to the mixture gives the meatballs a soft, tender texture.
• Olive Oil: A light sear in olive oil locks in the flavors and gives the meatballs a slight crust.

For the Soup Base:

• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth for a lighter, healthier option.
• Vegetables: Sliced carrots, diced potatoes, and chunks of celery add heartiness and nutrition.
• Tomatoes: A can of diced tomatoes provides the soup with a robust tomato flavor.
• Herbs and Spices: Ground cumin, oregano, and fresh cilantro enhance the soup’s aromatic profile.
• Salt and Pepper: Adjust to your taste to bring everything together.

Why Albondigas is a Must-Try

1. Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice levels or add vegetables like zucchini or green beans for extra nutrition.
2. One-Pot Wonder: It’s a simple, fuss-free recipe that only requires one pot for the soup.
3. Family-Friendly: With its mild yet flavorful broth, Albondigas is suitable for kids and adults alike.
4. Nutritious: Packed with protein, vegetables, and warming spices, it’s as healthy as it is delicious.

Pro Tips for Perfect Albondigas

• Forming the Meatballs: To prevent sticking, wet your hands slightly before rolling the meatballs. Make them evenly sized to ensure uniform cooking.
• Searing the Meatballs: While browning is optional, it enhances the flavor by adding a caramelized outer layer.
• Simmering: Avoid overboiling the soup after adding the meatballs. A gentle simmer keeps the meat tender.
• Balancing Flavors: Taste the broth before serving and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or an extra pinch of cumin.

When to Serve Albondigas Soup

Albondigas Soup is perfect for weeknight dinners, weekend gatherings, or even meal prepping for busy days. Serve it with a side of warm tortillas or crusty bread for a complete meal.

 Step-by-Step Recipe for Mexican Albondigas Soup

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• ½ cup cooked rice (optional)
• 1–2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Soup Base:

• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• ½ carrot, sliced
• 1 celery stalk, cut into chunks
• 1 (16-ounce) can diced tomatoes (undrained)
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 potato, diced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, beaten egg, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, ground cumin, salt, pepper, and cooked rice (if using).
2. Mix the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
3. Roll the mixture into 20–24 evenly sized meatballs, about 1½ inches wide.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the meatballs on all sides until lightly browned. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Soup Base

1. In a large pot, add chicken broth, sliced carrots, celery chunks, diced tomatoes (with their juice), ground cumin, oregano, and fresh cilantro.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cook for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Add Meatballs and Potatoes

1. Gently place the browned meatballs and diced potatoes into the simmering soup.
2. Increase the heat slightly to bring the soup to a mild boil for a few minutes to cook the meatballs quickly.
3. Lower the heat and simmer for an additional 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Season and Serve

1. Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
2. Ladle the soup into bowls, ensuring each serving has a generous portion of meatballs and vegetables.
3. Serve warm with tortillas or bread for dipping.

Nutrition Information

Per Quart

Calories  548  Fat  29 g  Saturated fat  9 g  Transfat  1 g  Cholesterol  127 mg  Sodium  1493 mg  Carbohydrates  38 g  Fiber  5 g  Sugar  10 g  Protein  32 g  Vitamin D  0 mcg
Calcium  141 mg  Iron  6 mg  Potassium  1766 mg

Enjoy your homemade Albondigas Soup—a flavorful, comforting dish that’s as delightful to prepare as it is to eat!