Delve into a luscious fusion of flavors with this Bulgarian meatball soup recipe, an elevated take on the classic Bulgarian meatball soup. Each spoonful promises comfort and harmony.
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 2 hours
Ingredients (Serves Four People)
- 2 liters water
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 50 grams rice
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 medium carrots
- 500 grams minced meat (beef, pork, or a mix)
- 1 egg (separated: 1 whole egg for thickening, 1 egg white for meatballs)
- 2 tablespoons bread crumbs (optional)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon savory (Chubritsa)
- 30 grams flour (for dusting and thickening)
- 400 grams sour milk (Bulgarian yogurt)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 hot chili pepper (optional)
- 2-3 small potatoes, diced (optional)
Note: 1 tablespoon is approximately 15 ml, and a teaspoon is approximately 5 ml.
Preparation Method
Step 1: Boil the Base
In a large pot, bring 2 liters of water and 1 teaspoon of salt to a boil at 100°C (212°F).
Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients
Wash the rice thoroughly. Finely chop the onions and dice one carrot. Dice the potatoes if using. Set the other carrot aside for later use.
Step 3: Meatball Magic
In a mixing bowl, combine the minced meat, 1 tablespoon of rice, breadcrumbs, egg white, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and savory. Mix thoroughly. Shape the mixture into small meatballs and place them on a tray dusted with flour, shaking gently to coat them with flour.
Step 4: Cooking the Meatballs
Carefully drop the meatballs into the boiling water, ensuring they hold their shape.
Step 5: Soup Foundation
Add the chopped onion, diced carrot, and potatoes (if using) to the boiling water. For added heat, drop in a hot chili pepper (optional). Let everything simmer for about 30 minutes at 90°C (194°F).
Step 6: The Finishing Touch
In a small bowl, whisk together the sour milk, one whole egg, and the remaining 30 grams of flour until smooth. Grate the reserved carrot and sauté it in olive oil until soft and fragrant.
Step 7: Thickening the Soup
Slowly incorporate a few ladles of hot soup into the sour milk mixture, stirring continuously to temper it. Pour the tempered mixture back into the soup pot, stirring gently. Let it reach a gentle boil, then remove from heat.
Step 8: Final Seasoning
Stir in the sautéed carrots, the remaining ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of savory. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Tips and Tricks
- Ensure the sour milk and egg are at room temperature for smoother blending.
- Be gentle when dropping the meatballs into the boiling water to help them retain their shape.
- Serve with a slice of lemon for added freshness.
Serving Suggestions
- Crusty Bread: Serve alongside crusty bread to soak up the rich broth.
- Pickled Vegetables: Pair with traditional Bulgarian pickles for added tang and contrast.
Wine Pairing
In Bulgaria, we don’t usually have wine and spirits with soup.
Nutritional Information (Per serving)
Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 850 mg
Storage Suggestions
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze individual portions for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
About the Bulgarian Meatballs Soup
Bulgarian meatball soup, or супа топчета, is a traditional comfort food in Bulgaria, often enjoyed during the colder months. The flavorful broth, tender meatballs, and hearty vegetables combine to create a dish that warms the body and soul.
Cultural Context
Frying and boiling meat, especially in soup form, is a long-standing tradition in Bulgarian cuisine. Meatball soups are staples in many Bulgarian households, showcasing the balance between rich flavors and fresh ingredients. This dish, combined with ground meat, rice, and aromatic herbs like savory, embodies the heart of Bulgarian home cooking.
