Mexican meatball soup

Here’s a flavorful recipe for Mexican Meatball Soup, also known as Albóndigas, that’s comforting and easy to make!

Mexican Meatball Soup

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1/2 cup rice (uncooked)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 egg

For the Soup:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 6 cups chicken or beef broth
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1-2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatballs

• In a large bowl, combine ground meat, rice, cilantro, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, pepper, and egg. Mix until well combined.
• Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

• In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

3. Add the Soup Ingredients

• Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), chicken or beef broth, chili powder, cumin, and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer.

4. Cook the Meatballs

• Gently add the meatballs to the simmering soup. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the rice is tender.

5. Add Greens

• If using, stir in the spinach or kale and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until wilted.

6. Season and Serve

• Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
• Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges on the side.

Enjoy!

This Mexican Meatball Soup is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for any day. Enjoy it with warm tortillas or crusty bread!