traditional Mexican comfort food that combines savory meatballs with a rich and flavorful broth. – Page 2

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatballs:

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, uncooked rice, egg, chopped onion, garlic, cilantro, ground cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Mix everything together until well combined.
Using your hands, form the mixture into small meatballs, about the size of a golf ball. Set them aside.

2. Cook the Broth:

In a large pot, add the broth, tomatoes, carrots, potatoes, celery, onion, garlic, and bay leaf.
Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer and let cook for about 10-15 minutes, until the vegetables are starting to soften.

3. Add the Meatballs:

Gently add the prepared meatballs into the simmering broth, being careful not to break them.
Let the soup simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Taste the broth and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. If you want a bit more heat, add in the dried chilies (or fresh jalapeños) for a little extra kick.

4. Serve:

Once the meatballs are cooked, remove the bay leaf and any whole pieces of onion or garlic.
Ladle the soup into bowls, making sure to include plenty of meatballs and broth with the veggies.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for added brightness and flavor.

Why Sopa de Albóndigas is a Mexican Favorite

Sopa de Albóndigas has earned its place as a beloved comfort food throughout Mexico. The combination of savory meatballs and a rich, flavorful broth makes for the ultimate satisfying meal, whether it’s enjoyed on a chilly evening or as part of a festive family gathering.

The rice-filled meatballs soak up the broth’s flavors, creating a delicious balance of tender meat, savory spices, and hearty vegetables. The addition of fresh herbs like cilantro and a squeeze of lime adds brightness and a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.

Customizations and Tips:

Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, add chopped jalapeños or dried chipotle peppers to the soup for a smoky, spicy depth.
Extra Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as zucchini, green beans, or corn, to make the soup even more hearty and colorful.
Make it Gluten-Free: If you’re avoiding gluten, make sure to use rice (instead of bread crumbs) for the meatballs and check that your broth is gluten-free.
Slow Cooker Version: You can prepare this soup in a slow cooker. Brown the meatballs slightly first, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.

Serving Suggestions:

Warm Tortillas: Serve your Sopa de Albóndigas with warm corn tortillas or tortilla chips for dipping.
Mexican Rice: Pair the soup with a side of Mexican rice for a more filling meal.
Sliced Avocado: Add some creamy sliced avocado on the side for extra texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts:

Sopa de Albóndigas is the epitome of Mexican comfort food. This rich and flavorful dish brings together simple ingredients to create a nourishing and filling meal. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or for a special occasion, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Give this classic recipe a try, and enjoy the warmth and heartiness that comes with every bite of these savory meatballs and delicious broth. It’s a true taste of home!

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