Albondіgas soup , a dish everyone in my family love . It’s a Mexican meatball soup that’s super warm and fills your belly . The meatballs are made with seasoned meat and rice then float in a broth with fresh veggies . It smells so good when it simmers and always makes you feel cozy .
The word albondіga comes from the Arabic term for meatballs , but it traveled through Spanish and landed in Mexico . Now every región puts its own spin on it , adding local veggies or a bit more spice . It’s not just a meal ; it’s like a big food hug that pulls famіlies together .
In this article you’ll learn how to make Albondіgas soup from scratch , what basic ingredients you need and some easy tips to switch it up . Whether you’re just starting in the kitchen or you’ve been cooking for years , you’ll find a trick or two here .
What is Albondigas Soup?
Albondіgas soup is basically a hearty broth with little meatballs that come from Mexican home cooking . Its name literally means “meatballs” in Spanish , and it’s special because you mix rice right into the meat . Then you cook them in a tomato-based broth with onion , garlic , cumin and oregano . Fresh veggies like carrots , potatoes and zucchini add texture and nutrition .
Compared to other meatball soups , this one stands out with those fresh veggies and warm spices . You usually serve it hot with warm tortillas or crusty bread to soak up all that flavor .
Ingredients for Albondigas Soup
Here’s what you need :
- 1 lb ground beef or pork
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 small onion , finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic , minced
- 2 tablespoon chopped cilantro
- 1 teaspoon cumin , salt and pepper to taste
- 6 cups beef or chicken broth
- 2 carrots , diced
- 2 potatoes , peeled and diced
- 1 zucchini , sliced
- 1 can diced tomatoes or 2 fresh tomatoes , chopped
- 1 teaspoon oregano and 2 bay leaves
Detailed Recipe for Albondigas Soup
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Meatballs
In a big bowl , mix ground meat , cooked rice , onion , garlic , cilantro , cumin , salt , pepper and one egg . Don’t overmix or the meatballs get tough . Roll into 1-inch balls and set them aside on a plate .
2. Build the Soup Base
Heat a little oil in a large pot over medium heat . Add chopped onion and garlic , sauté until soft . Pour in the broth and bring to a gentle simmer . Stir in tomatoes , oregano and bay leaves , then let it cook for 10 minutes so flavors meld .
3. Add Meatballs and Veggies
Carefully drop the meatballs into the simmering broth , don’t crowd them . After 10 minutes , add carrots , potatoes and zucchini . Simmer for another 20 minutes or until veggies are tender and meatballs are cooked through .
4. Final Touches
Taste the soup and add more salt or pepper if you think it needs it . Remove bay leaves , then ladle into bowls . Top with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime , if you like that extra zing .
Tips for Success
- Keep all meatballs the same size so they cook evenly .
- You can swap veggies based on what’s in season .
- Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for busy nights .
Health Benefits of Albondigas Soup
This soup isn’t just tasty ; it’s pretty good for you too . The meat gives you protein and iron , while the veggies add fiber and vitamins . Spices like cumin and oregano have anti-inflammatory properties , making this soup a great pick when you feel under the weather or just need something nourishing .
Variations of Albondigas Soup
If you want a meatless option , try lentil or black bean balls instead of meat . For a lighter soup , use ground turkey or chicken . You can also spice it up with jalapeños or chipotle peppers if you like heat . Every region in Mexico has its own touch , so feel free to experiment .
Pairing Suggestions
Serve Albondigas soup with warm corn tortillas or crusty bread for dunking . A cold Mexican beer or a sweet agua fresca balances the warm spices perfectly . Add a simple side salad for more veggies and you’ve got a full meal .
Frequently Asked Questions
What meat is best for Albondigas?
Ground beef or pork are classic , but turkey or chicken work too for a lighter version .
Can I use pre-cooked rice?
Yes , pre-cooked rice binds the meatballs just fine and saves time .
How long will leftovers last?
Store in the fridge for 3–4 days or freeze for up to 3 months .
Is this soup gluten-free?
It is , as long as your broth is gluten-free and you don’t add any binders with gluten .
Can I use dried herbs?
Yes , but use half the amount since they’re more concentrated .
How spicy is it?
It’s mild by default , but you can add more chili for heat .
Conclusion
Albondіgas soup is a simple but flavorful dish that brings people together . Try the recipe , tweak it to your taste and share it with friends or family . Let us know how your soup turns out !
Albondigas Soup Mexican Meatball Soup recipe
Equipment
- 1 large pot or Dutch oven
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 baking sheet (optional)
- 1 sharp knife
- 1 cutting board
- 1 wooden spoon or spatula
- 1 ladle
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- ¼ cup uncooked rice
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 8 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- ½ cup frozen peas
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 lime cut into wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, rice, onion, garlic, egg, cumin, salt, pepper, and cilantro. Mix well until fully combined.
- Shape the meat mixture into small meatballs, approximately 1-inch in diameter. You should get about 24 meatballs.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, bring the beef broth to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Carefully add the meatballs to the boiling broth. Reduce the heat to medium and let the meatballs cook for about 10 minutes.
- Add the diced tomatoes, carrots, potatoes, zucchini, peas, oregano, and chili powder to the pot. Stir well and bring back to a gentle simmer.
- Cover the pot and cook for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the meatballs are cooked through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot with lime wedges on the side.
