Here’s another recipe from Jocooks which my son had tried and had recommended to me. I love this soup for couple of reasons. It uses lemon juice and tomato paste, ingredients that give the broth its pleasing tangy taste. It also consists of meatballs, which makes this soup hearty and a meal on its own. The meatballs have uncooked rice in them which was a new concept for me. They are cooked in the broth and not fried, making this dish healthy as well. The cooked meatballs were tender, tasty and heartwarming. This Romanian meatballs soup is definitely a keeper. It is a perfect dish to have on a cold winter day. Love it!

Cooking Tips for Perfect Meatballs

To achieve tender and flavorful meatballs, start by mixing your ground meat with the uncooked rice, spices, and herbs gently. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs, so just combine the ingredients until everything is evenly distributed. Using a combination of meats, like beef and pork, can enhance the flavor and texture. When forming the meatballs, aim for a uniform size. This ensures they cook evenly in the broth. If you find the mixture too sticky, wet your hands slightly while shaping the meatballs. This simple trick can make the process much easier. Another tip is to let the meatballs rest for a few minutes before adding them to the soup. This helps them hold their shape better when cooking. Finally, keep an eye on the simmering soup. A gentle simmer is ideal to prevent the meatballs from breaking apart. Check for doneness by cutting one meatball in half. It should be fully cooked and the rice should be tender. With these tips, your Romanian meatball soup will turn out perfectly every time.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Romanian meatball soup is delicious on its own but can be enhanced with a few simple sides. A slice of crusty bread or a warm baguette is perfect for dipping into the tangy broth. If you’re looking for something lighter, a fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup. Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill directly to the soup just before serving. This adds a nice creaminess and extra flavor. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of hot sauce or some sliced chili peppers can spice things up. Pair this dish with a light white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, or a refreshing sparkling water with lemon for a complete meal. The soup can also be a great starter for a cozy dinner, followed by a hearty main course like roasted chicken or stuffed peppers. These simple pairings can elevate your dining experience and make your Romanian meatball soup even more enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use beef instead of pork for the meatballs?

Using ground beef is totally fine if you prefer it over pork. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be a bit different, but it will still be delicious.

How should I store leftover soup?

Let the soup cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days, or you can freeze it for up to three months.

What can I serve with Romanian meatball soup?

This soup is hearty enough on its own, but pairing it with some crusty bread or a simple side salad would be a great addition. A dollop of sour cream can also add a nice creamy touch.

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely, you can prepare the meatballs a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just remember to let them rest a bit before adding them to the soup to help maintain their shape.

What are common mistakes to avoid when making this soup?

One common mistake is overmixing the meatball mixture, which can make them tough. Also, be gentle when adding the meatballs to the simmering soup to prevent them from breaking apart.

Romanian Meatball Soup

Liza A

Romanian Meatball Soup is a comforting bowl of juicy pork meatballs simmered with onions and seasonings, offering a cozy blend of flavors and textures. It's easy to make and packed with hearty goodness.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 45

Total Time 1 5

Course Soup

Cuisine Romanian

Servings servings

Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients

Meatballs:

1 lb lean ground pork
1 shallot minced
1 tsp garlic powder
1 egg
1/4 cup of long grain rice
1/4 cup of breadcrumbs
2 tbsp chopped parsley
Sea salt and pepper to taste

Soup:

2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion chopped
2 carrots diced
2 sticks celery chopped
10 cups chicken broth
2 tbsp of tomato paste or 1 cup tomato juice
Juice of one lemon or more to taste
Sea salt and pepper to taste
1 egg beaten
Chopped parsley

Instructions

Mix all the ingredients for the meatballs and roll in balls of desired size. Set aside.
Heat olive oil in large stockpot. Add onion, carrots and celery; sauté over medium heat until vegetables begin to soften, about 4 minutes.
Add the broth. Bring to a boil and then add the meatballs one at a time.
Keep boiling until meatballs rise to the top then add the tomato juice or paste, lemon juice, salt and pepper to taste. Continue to simmer over medium heat for about 20 minutes. Slowly pour in the eggs in a steady stream. Sprinkle with chopped parsley. Transfer to a serving bowl, top with a dollop of sour cream and serve.

Notes

Recipe source: Jocooks

Nutrition

Calories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 22gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3g

Keyword comfort food, hearty meal, meatball soup, traditional recipe

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