Ingredients

3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 onion , chopped
3 -5 cloves garlic , minced
2 stalks celery , chopped ( optional )
1 teaspoon whole cumin seed
1 1/2 - 2 cups low sodium vegetable broth or 1 1/2-2 cups broth ( I use homemade )
1 can peeled diced tomatoes , undrained
5 -7 tomatillos , papery skins removed , washed and diced ( depending on size )
3 -4 cups water ( depending on how much stock you used and how thin you like your soup )
1 bunch cilantro , washed and chopped
1/3 cup white rice or 1/3 cup brown rice
2 -4 carrots , peeled and sliced ( depending on size )
salt
pepper
1 lb lean ground beef
1/3 cup plain breadcrumbs or 1/3 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs ( I use Progresso )
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1 egg
Sopa de Albondigas, or Mexican Meatball Soup, is a classic soup that is often served during celebrations and special occasions in Mexican households. This hearty soup is a satisfying meal on its own or can be served alongside crispy tortillas or fresh bread for dipping. This soup is packed with flavor and texture, making it a favorite among soup lovers. Each steaming bowl is filled with plump meatballs, tender vegetables, and hearty broth. The addition of fresh herbs like cilantro and spices like cumin give the soup a lovely depth of flavor. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for those who crave a comforting meal that can be enjoyed any day of the week.

Instructions

1.In a large pot, heat up vegetable oil over medium heat. Saute onion, garlic, celery, and cumin seed until fragrant.
2.Add broth, diced tomatoes, tomatillos and water. Bring to boil.
3.Add cilantro, rice, and carrots to the pot and reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice and carrots are cooked.
4.In a separate bowl, mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, cumin, garlic powder, oregano, and egg until combined.
5.Roll the mixture into 1 to 1.5 inch meatballs, add them to the soup, and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through.

PROS

This traditional Mexican soup is full of savory flavors and ingredients that are both healthy and delicious.
The combination of fresh vegetables, herbs, spices, and lean protein make this soup a filling and nutritious meal that will warm you up on a cold day.

CONS

Sopa de Albondigas does contain white rice and breadcrumbs, which can push up the calorie content of the soup.
Depending on the serving size, this soup may be high in sodium, so it is important to use low sodium broth and watch portion sizes.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This soup is loaded with nutrients from fresh vegetables, cilantro, and lean beef. Tomatillos, in particular, are rich in vitamin C, which is known for its antioxidant properties.
Celery and carrots are high in fiber, and the cumin seed in the soup has anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits. This soup is a great choice for healthy, clean eating and can be modified to fit a variety of dietary needs, including low carb and low fat.

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