Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup uncooked white rice
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, rice, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, parsley, mint, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil.
4. Add the meatballs to the pot and reduce the heat to a simmer.
5. Cook the meatballs for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and the rice is tender.
6. Stir in the lemon juice and season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
- Simmer
Serving size:
- 4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 28g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground lamb or pork can be substituted for the ground beef.
- Brown rice can be used instead of white rice.
- Dried herbs can be used instead of fresh herbs.
Variations:
- Add chopped carrots and celery to the soup for extra vegetables.
- Use quinoa instead of rice for a gluten-free option.
- Add a dollop of Greek yogurt to each bowl for a creamy finish.
Tips and tricks:
- Wet your hands before rolling the meatballs to prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands.
- If the soup is too tart, add a pinch of sugar to balance out the lemon flavor.
- Make a double batch and freeze the leftovers for an easy meal later on.
Storage instructions:
- Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the soup in individual bowls with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top.
Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley or mint leaves
Pairings:
- Serve with a side of crusty bread or a Greek salad.
Suggested side dishes:
- Greek salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the meatballs are falling apart, try adding more breadcrumbs to the mixture.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the meatballs are cooked through to an internal temperature of 160°F to prevent foodborne illness.
Food history:
- Greek meatball soup, also known as avgolemono, is a traditional Greek dish that dates back to ancient times.
Flavor profiles:
- Tangy, savory, and herbaceous
Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot as a main dish for lunch or dinner.
Related Categories
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Region: Greek
Taste: Savory, Tangy, Herbal, Aromatic, Comforting