Albondigas Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary journey that takes you straight to the heart of traditional Mexican cuisine. This comforting soup, brimming with meatballs, vegetables, and a rich broth, is a family favorite that has stood the test of time.
The secret ingredient that sets this soup apart is the fresh spearmint leaves, giving it a unique and unforgettable flavor. Whether you’re new to Mexican cooking or a seasoned chef, this Albondigas Soup recipe is a must-try. It’s not just food; it’s an experience that warms the soul.
Table of contents
Albondigas Soup recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 quarts chicken stock or beef stock
- 1 quart water
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 pound green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1/3 cup white rice
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh spearmint leaves
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 cups frozen or fresh peas
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 dash cayenne, optional
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Directions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until tender.
- Add the stock, water, and tomato sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Add green beans and carrots.
- In a separate bowl, mix rice, ground beef, spearmint leaves, parsley, salt, and pepper. Add the egg and form into 1-inch meatballs.
- Gently add the meatballs to the simmering soup. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Add peas, oregano, and optional cayenne. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 60 minutes
Kcal: 297 kcal | Servings: 6-8 servings
What is Albondigas Soup Made Of?
Albondigas Soup is a traditional Mexican dish that features meatballs as its main ingredient. The meatballs, known as “albondigas” in Spanish, are typically made from ground beef or ground turkey mixed with rice, fresh herbs like spearmint and parsley, and spices. In fact, The soup base is a flavorful concoction of chicken or beef stock, sautéed onions, garlic, and tomato sauce. Indeed, Vegetables like green beans, carrots, and peas are also commonly added. The dish is often garnished with fresh cilantro and can be seasoned with oregano and cayenne pepper for added flavor.
How Do You Keep Albondigas From Falling Apart?
The key to keeping the meatballs in Albondigas Soup from falling apart lies in the preparation. Here are some tips:
- Binding Agents: Make sure to include a binding agent like eggs in your meatball mixture.
- Rice: The inclusion of rice not only adds texture but also helps to bind the meatballs.
- Gentle Cooking: When adding the meatballs to the soup, it’s crucial to let them simmer gently to avoid breaking.
- Avoid Stirring: Resist the urge to stir the soup too much after adding the meatballs.
What Countries Eat Albondigas?
While Albondigas Soup is a staple in Mexican cuisine, variations of meatball soups and dishes can be found in other Latin American countries, as well as in Spain. The concept of meatballs is universal and transcends many cultures, from Italian “polpette” to Swedish “köttbullar.”
Why Are They Called Albondigas?
The term “albondigas” originates from the Arabic word “al-bunduq,” which means “the ball.” This reflects the dish’s history and the influence of Arabic cuisine on Spanish and subsequently Mexican cooking. In fact, The word was adapted into Spanish during the period of Moorish rule in the Iberian Peninsula and later made its way to Mexico, where it became a staple in the local cuisine.
Why is My Albondigas Soup So Greasy? Troubleshooting Tips for a Healthier Dish
If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “Why is my Albondigas Soup so greasy?”, you’re not alone. While Albondigas Soup is a delicious and hearty meal, it can sometimes turn out greasier than expected. The good news is that there are several reasons why this might happen, and more importantly, multiple ways to fix it.
The Culprits Behind a Greasy Albondigas Soup
- Type of Meat: One of the primary factors contributing to a greasy soup is the type of meat used in the meatballs. Ground beef with a high-fat content will release more grease into the soup.
- Cooking Technique: How you cook the meatballs can also affect the grease level. Frying the meatballs before adding them to the soup can introduce extra oil.
- Stock Quality: Sometimes, the stock you use can also be a culprit. Pre-packaged stocks may contain fats that can make the soup greasy.
Solutions for a Less Greasy Albondigas Soup
- Lean Meat: Opt for leaner cuts of meat like ground turkey or lean ground beef to minimize fat content. This will result in less grease being released into the soup.
- Skimming: After cooking, you can skim off the excess fat from the top of the soup using a spoon or a fat separator.
- Chilling Method: Another effective method is to refrigerate the soup. The fat will solidify at the top, making it easier to remove.
- Quality Stock: Use homemade stock or high-quality, low-fat packaged stock to control the fat content in your soup.
- Avoid Frying: Instead of frying the meatballs, you can bake them or cook them directly in the soup to reduce added fats.
- Use Vegetables: Incorporating more vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers can absorb some of the grease, making the soup less oily.
By paying attention to these factors and implementing these solutions, you can enjoy a less greasy, yet still flavorful, Albondigas Soup. So the next time you’re in the mood for this traditional Mexican dish, keep these tips in mind for a healthier and more enjoyable meal.