By Chef Rob Malone, The Turntable Restaurant
Extra Thoughts: Can use Hot Italian Sausage for a spicier meatball or maple sausage for a hint of sweetness. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan or a squeeze of fresh lemon for extra brightness.
Food Prep: The meatballs can also be made ahead of time and frozen for later use.
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
½ lb ground beef
½ lb ground pork
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ small onion, finely diced
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp dried oregano
For the Soup:
1 tbsp olive oil
½ onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 large mixed-colored carrots, sliced
4 pinto gold potatoes, diced
6 cups beef, vegetable or chicken broth (I prefer vegetable stock in all my soups)
1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes (optional, for extra depth)
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp dried thyme
½ tsp cumin (optional, for a warm, earthy flavor)
1 bay leaf
Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, minced garlic, diced onion, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano.
- Mix well until evenly combined.
- Roll into small meatballs (about 1-inch in diameter) and set aside.
2. Sear the Meatballs:
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add meatballs and sear them on all sides until browned (they don’t need to be fully cooked through). *Gently shake the pot every minute or so, to keep the meatballs from sticking.
- Remove and set aside.
3. Prepare the Soup Base:
- In the same pot, add diced onions and cook for 2 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic, carrots, and potatoes. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes.
4. Simmer the Soup:
- Pour in the broth and diced tomatoes (if using).
- Add salt, pepper, thyme, cumin, and bay leaf.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
5. Add Meatballs & Cook:
- Gently add the meatballs back into the pot.
- Cover and let simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
6. Final Touches:
- Remove bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.