Greek Meatball Soup
Greek Meatball Soup
Introduction
Greek Meatball Soup is a warm and hearty dish filled with flavorful meatballs, fresh vegetables, and comforting broth. It’s perfect for any day of the week when you want something simple yet tasty.
Why Make This Recipe
This soup is a great option because it’s easy to prepare, and it combines delicious flavors from Greek cuisine. Plus, it’s a comforting meal that is sure to please the whole family.
How to Make Greek Meatball Soup
Ingredients:
For the meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the soup:
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Form this mixture into small meatballs.
- In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft.
- Pour in the beef broth and bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Carefully add the meatballs to the simmering broth and cook for about 15-20 minutes, until the meatballs are fully cooked.
- Stir in the cooked rice and lemon juice. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve hot and sprinkle with fresh parsley on top.
How to Serve Greek Meatball Soup
Serve the soup hot in bowls, and you can add extra lemon juice or fresh parsley for more flavor. It pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad on the side.
How to Store Greek Meatball Soup
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the soup, but it’s best to do so without the rice. Thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Tips to Make Greek Meatball Soup
- Make sure not to overcook the meatballs to keep them tender.
- Use homemade or low-sodium broth for better taste and health.
- Add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition.
Variation (If Any)
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this soup. You can also use quinoa or noodles instead of rice.
FAQs
Can I make meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge until you are ready to cook them.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of parsley?
Absolutely! Fresh dill or oregano can add a nice touch to the soup.
How can I make this vegetarian?
You can replace meatballs with chickpea balls or any plant-based meat alternative and use vegetable broth for the soup.