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Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef (or beef and pork mixture), cooked rice, chopped onion, cilantro, egg, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Once the mixture is uniform, shape it into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You should have about 20-25 meatballs depending on size.
Step 2: Prepare the Soup Base
- In a large pot, heat the beef or chicken broth over medium-high heat.
- Once the broth is boiling, carefully drop in the meatballs one by one, ensuring they don’t touch each other. Let the meatballs cook for about 10 minutes, occasionally stirring gently to make sure they don’t stick to the bottom.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
- Add the diced potatoes, carrots, zucchini, green beans, and optional celery to the pot with the meatballs. Stir gently to combine the ingredients.
- Stir in the can of diced tomatoes with their juice, and season the soup with oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the soup back to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let the soup cook for another 20-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender, and the flavors are well combined.
Step 4: Final Touches
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you want more depth of flavor, you can add a pinch more cumin or oregano.
- Once everything is cooked and the meatballs are tender, remove from the heat.
Step 5: Serve
- Ladle the hot Albondigas into bowls, ensuring each serving has a generous amount of meatballs and vegetables.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, and serve with a side of warm tortillas or crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
Tips for the Perfect Albondigas
- Rice in the Meatballs: The rice adds a lovely texture and moisture to the meatballs, preventing them from being too dense. It’s a traditional addition that enhances the flavor and consistency of the dish.
- Broth Flavor: You can customize the soup’s flavor by using beef or chicken broth, or even a mix of both. If you prefer a richer broth, go for beef.
- Add Extra Heat: For a spicier version, add a chopped jalapeño or some red pepper flakes to the broth.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to mix up the vegetables based on what you have available. Bell peppers, corn, or even spinach can be great additions to this soup.
Why You’ll Love Albondigas
Albondigas is more than just a soup; it’s a comforting, filling meal that combines the richness of meatballs with the freshness of vegetables in a savory broth. The spices add a subtle heat and depth of flavor, while the combination of tender meatballs and vegetables makes for a satisfying and well-rounded dish. It’s a perfect recipe for feeding a crowd or making a large batch to enjoy throughout the week.
This dish embodies the essence of traditional Mexican cooking—simple ingredients, bold flavors, and a heartwarming result. Whether you’re craving something cozy or looking to explore new flavors, Albondigas is a must-try dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Enjoy your Albondigas, and feel free to share this authentic Mexican recipe with your friends and family for a meal that’s sure to become a favorite!
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