Albondigas Soup

Here’s a classic Albóndigas Soup recipe for you—a comforting Mexican meatball soup with a flavorful broth, tender meatballs, and vegetables.

Albóndigas Soup Recipe

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs (Albóndigas):

• 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef )
• 1/4 cup uncooked white rice
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh mint or cilantro, finely chopped
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Soup:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large carrot, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 potato, diced (optional)
• 1 zucchini, diced (optional)
• 6 cups beef or chicken broth
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro or mint for garnish
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Make the Meatballs:

• In a bowl, mix ground beef, rice, egg, garlic, mint/cilantro, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
• Roll into 1-inch meatballs (makes about 20). Set aside.

1. Prepare the Soup Base:

• Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until soft (~3 mins).
• Add carrots, celery, potato, and zucchini (if using). Cook for 5 mins.
• Pour in broth and diced tomatoes. Add cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.

1. Cook the Meatballs:

• Gently drop meatballs into the simmering broth.
• Cover and simmer for 20-25 mins until meatballs are cooked and rice is tender.

1. Serve:

• Ladle soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro/mint and a squeeze of lime.

Enjoy your Albóndigas Soup with warm tortillas or crusty bread!