Description
A traditional Mexican soup featuring tender meatballs in a savory tomato-based broth, enriched with vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and zucchini. This hearty, comforting, and nutritious soup is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- ½ cup cooked white rice
- ¼ cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Soup
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 6 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, cilantro, minced garlic, cumin, oregano, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until combined and form into 1-inch meatballs. Set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, sauté for 3 minutes until softened. Add sliced carrots and diced potatoes, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir in cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Cook the Meatballs: Carefully add meatballs to the boiling broth. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes until meatballs are cooked through and vegetables are tender.
- Add Zucchini: Stir in the diced zucchini and cook for another 5 minutes, until tender.
- Serve: Ladle soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.
Notes
- For extra heat, add sliced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
- Customize with your favorite vegetables like green beans, corn, or bell peppers.
- Swap rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb version.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
