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Authentic Albondigas Soup (Mexican Meatball Soup)

Close-up of a white bowl filled with rich, tomato-based albondigas soup featuring large meatballs, potatoes, and carrots.
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Make this traditional Mexican Meatball Soup featuring tender beef meatballs cooked in a flavorful tomato and vegetable broth.

Ingredients

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  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/4 cup uncooked white rice
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for garnish
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium white onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 6 cups beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the ground beef, rice, 1/4 cup chopped onion, egg, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, and 1/4 cup cilantro. Mix gently until just combined; do not overmix.
  2. Roll the meat mixture into small, 1-inch meatballs. You should have about 18 to 20 meatballs.
  3. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the remaining chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  6. Carefully add the meatballs to the simmering broth.
  7. Add the carrots and potatoes to the pot.
  8. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
  9. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
  10. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Notes

  • For extra tender meatballs, soak the rice in warm water for 10 minutes before mixing it into the meat. Drain well before using.
  • You can substitute ground pork or a mix of beef and pork for the ground beef.
  • If you prefer a smoother broth, you can blend the diced tomatoes with a little broth before adding them to the pot.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://spoonfulsnap.com/albondigas-soup-authentic-mexican-meatball-soup/