Caldo de Albóndigas (Mexican Meatball Soup)

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through making Caldo de Albóndigas, a delicious Mexican meatball soup that offers comfort and satisfaction in every bite. This hearty dish is perfect for lunch or dinner and is a beloved staple in many Mexican households. Follow these easy steps to create a flavorful and nutritious meal.

Step 1: Prepare the Albóndigas (Meatballs)

To start, you will need the following ingredients for the meatballs:

• 2 lbs ground beef
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped mint leaves (to taste)
• 1 cup uncooked rice
• 2 eggs at room temperature

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chopped mint leaves and uncooked rice to the mixture.
3. Crack the eggs into the bowl and mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
4. Form the mixture into small meatballs, roughly the size of golf balls.

Step 2: Prepare the Broth (Caldo)

For the broth, gather the following ingredients:

• 1/2 white onion
• 3 garlic cloves
• 2 chile morita (dried morita chiles)
• 5 roma tomatoes
• 10 cups hot water
• 2 tbsp chicken bouillon
• 3 carrots (sliced)
• 2 potatoes (cubed)
• 2 calabacitas (zucchini, sliced)
• Small bunch of cilantro (chopped)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the hot water over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken bouillon and stir until dissolved.
3. Chop the onion and garlic, then add them to the pot along with the dried chiles and roma tomatoes (you can blend the tomatoes beforehand for a smoother broth).
4. Once the mixture comes to a boil, lower the heat and add the sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, and sliced calabacitas.
5. Allow the broth to simmer for about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Albóndigas

Instructions:

1. Carefully add the prepared meatballs into the simmering broth.
2. Let them cook for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
3. Add the chopped cilantro in the last few minutes of cooking for added flavor.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Instructions:

1. Once the meatballs are done, taste the broth and adjust seasoning if necessary.
2. Serve the caldo hot in bowls, making sure to include meatballs and vegetables in each serving.
3. Garnish with additional cilantro if desired, and enjoy with warm tortillas or rice on the side.

Conclusion

You have now successfully made Caldo de Albóndigas, a comforting and flavorful Mexican meatball soup. This dish is not only satisfying but also versatile, allowing you to add your favorite vegetables or spices. Enjoy sharing this meal with family and friends, and consider trying other Mexican dishes for a complete culinary experience!