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Romanian Meatball Soup

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Romanian Meatball Soup, known as Ciorbă de Perișoare, is a hearty and comforting soup featuring tender homemade meatballs, vegetables, fresh herbs, and a signature tangy broth. This traditional Romanian favorite is nourishing, flavorful, and perfect for family meals.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground pork, beef, or a mixture
  • 1/4 cup uncooked rice
  • 1 small onion, finely grated
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 1 parsnip, diced
  • 1 celery stalk, diced
  • 8 cups chicken or beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice or vinegar
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, uncooked rice, grated onion, egg, parsley, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Mix gently until evenly combined.
  3. Shape the mixture into small meatballs about 1 inch in diameter.
  4. Heat the vegetable oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
  5. Add the diced onion, carrots, parsnip, and celery and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until softened.
  6. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
  7. Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  8. Carefully add the meatballs to the simmering broth.
  9. Reduce the heat and simmer for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the rice is tender.
  10. Stir in the lemon juice or vinegar to create the soup’s tangy flavor.
  11. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  12. Add the fresh parsley and dill just before serving.
  13. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
  • Add diced potatoes for extra heartiness.
  • Include bell peppers for additional flavor and color.
  • Replace lemon juice with traditional Romanian souring agents if available.
  • Serve with a spoonful of sour cream for extra richness.
  • Add more fresh dill for a stronger herbal flavor.
  • Mini meatballs create a more traditional presentation.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
  • Add broth or water when reheating if needed.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/romanian-meatball-soup-2/