Albondigas (Albóndigas)

Albondigas Soup, also known as “Sopa de Albóndigas,” is a traditional Mexican dish that warms both the heart and soul.

This hearty soup features tender meatballs made from ground beef and rice, simmered in a rich tomato broth with a medley of vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and zucchini. Garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime, it’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.

What Makes This So Great?

Albondigas Soup stands out for its wholesome ingredients and the harmony they create when combined. The meatballs are not your ordinary meatballs; they’re infused with aromatic herbs and spices, and the addition of rice gives them a unique texture that’s both tender and satisfying. The soup itself is a delightful blend of homemade tomato sauce and hearty vegetables, making it a complete meal in one bowl. It’s a dish that brings people together, evoking feelings of warmth and togetherness, and it’s versatile enough to be adapted to different tastes and dietary needs.

What Kitchen Items Do You Need To Make This?

To prepare Albondigas Soup, you’ll need the following kitchen items:

• Large Mixing Bowl: For combining the meatball ingredients.
• Blender: To create the smooth tomato sauce base for the soup.
• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: For cooking the soup.
• Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping vegetables and herbs.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To measure out ingredients accurately.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the soup as it cooks.
• Ladle: For serving the soup into bowls.
• Optional: Gloves for handling hot peppers if you’re sensitive to them.

What Ingredients Are Needed For This Recipe?

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ white onion, finely chopped
• ¼ bunch cilantro, finely chopped
• ½ cup long white rice
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 2 – 3 chipotle peppers, finely chopped
• 1 egg
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Rest:

• 4 roma tomatoes
• ½ white onion
• 6 garlic cloves
• 2 – 3 chipotle peppers (depending on spice level)
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1 – 2 tbsp chicken bouillon
• 1 large carrot, chopped
• 2 small potatoes, chopped
• 1 zucchini, chopped

To Serve:

• Cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges
• Tortillas or rice

How To Make It

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add 1 lb of ground beef, ½ finely chopped white onion, ¼ bunch finely chopped cilantro, ½ cup of long white rice, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp garlic powder, 2-3 finely chopped chipotle peppers, 1 egg, and salt and pepper to taste.
2. Mix Thoroughly: Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything until well combined.
3. Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into small balls about the size of a golf ball. Set them aside on a plate.

Step 2: Make the Tomato Sauce

1. Blend Ingredients: In a blender, combine 4 roma tomatoes, ½ white onion, 6 garlic cloves, 2-3 chipotle peppers (depending on your preferred spice level), 1 tsp oregano, 1 tbsp chicken bouillon, and 2 cups of water.
2. Blend Until Smooth: Blend the ingredients until you have a smooth sauce.
3. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and add more bouillon or seasoning if necessary.

Step 3: Cook the Soup

1. Heat the Sauce: In a large pot over medium-high heat, pour in the blended tomato sauce and bring it to a boil.
2. Add Water and Bouillon: Add 5 cups of water to the pot and stir in 1 tbsp of chicken bouillon.
3. Add Meatballs: Once the broth is boiling, carefully add the meatballs to the pot. Stir gently to prevent them from sticking to the bottom.
4. Initial Cooking: Cook the meatballs for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

1. Add Carrots and Potatoes: After the meatballs have cooked for 5 minutes, add 1 chopped large carrot and 2 chopped small potatoes to the pot.
2. Continue Cooking: Cook for an additional 12-15 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften.
3. Add Zucchini: Add 1 chopped zucchini to the soup and cook for another 5 minutes.
4. Check Seasoning: Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with chopped cilantro.
2. Add Lime and Tortillas: Serve with lime wedges for squeezing over the soup and warm tortillas or a side of rice.

What Is The History Behind This Recipe?

Albondigas Soup has a rich history that dates back to Spain and was influenced by Arabic cuisine during the Moorish occupation. The word “albondigas” comes from the Arabic “al-bunduq,” meaning “hazelnut” or “small round object,” which aptly describes the meatballs. When the Spanish colonized Mexico, they brought this dish with them, and over time, it was adapted to include local ingredients and spices.

In Mexico, Albondigas Soup became a staple in many households, known for its comforting qualities and ability to feed large families economically. The addition of ingredients like chipotle peppers and cilantro reflects the Mexican influence, giving the soup its distinctive taste. Today, it’s enjoyed in various forms across Latin America and has even made its way into American cuisine.

What Can I Switch Up To Make This Different If I Have Dietary Needs (Vegan/Vegetarian/Gluten Free)?

Vegetarian/Vegan Option:

• Meat Substitute: Use plant-based ground meat or a mixture of cooked lentils and finely chopped mushrooms to mimic the texture of ground beef.
• Egg Replacement: Use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water) as a binder.
• Bouillon Substitute: Replace chicken bouillon with vegetable bouillon or stock.
• Rice: Ensure the rice you use is vegan-friendly (most are).

Gluten-Free Option:

• Check Bouillon: Use gluten-free chicken bouillon or stock.
• Tortillas: Opt for corn tortillas, which are naturally gluten-free.
• Rice and Vegetables: All the other ingredients are typically gluten-free, but always check labels to be sure.

Adjusting Spice Level:

• Less Heat: Reduce the number of chipotle peppers or remove the seeds to lessen the heat.
• More Heat: Add additional chipotle peppers or include a dash of hot sauce.

Other Substitutions:

• Different Meat: You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
• Additional Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like celery or bell peppers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Albondigas Made Of?

Albondigas are meatballs typically made from ground meat (usually beef), mixed with ingredients like chopped onions, cilantro, uncooked rice, spices such as cumin and garlic powder, and an egg to bind everything together. In this recipe, they also include finely chopped chipotle peppers for a bit of heat.

What Culture Is Albondigas?

Albondigas originate from Spanish cuisine but have been widely adopted and adapted in Mexican and other Latin American cultures. The dish combines Spanish culinary techniques with Mexican ingredients, creating a fusion that’s beloved in many Hispanic households.

How Long Should You Cook Albondigas?

The meatballs are first cooked in the boiling broth for about 5 minutes to set them. After adding the carrots and potatoes, the soup cooks for an additional 12-15 minutes. Finally, the zucchini is added and cooked for another 5 minutes. In total, the meatballs cook for approximately 22-25 minutes, ensuring they’re fully cooked and tender.

How Do You Say Albondigas in English?

“Albondigas” translates to “meatballs” in English. When referring to “Sopa de Albóndigas,” it means “Meatball Soup.”

What Countries Eat Albondigas?

Albondigas are enjoyed in several countries, including Spain, Mexico, and various Latin American nations like Colombia, Argentina, and the Philippines (due to Spanish influence). Each country has its own version of the dish, incorporating local ingredients and flavors.

What Does Albondiga Mean in Spanish Slang?

In some Spanish-speaking regions, “albondiga” can be used colloquially to refer to someone who is chubby or round, similar to calling someone a “meatball” in English. However, this is informal slang and may not be widely used.

Where Are Albondigas from in Spain?

Albondigas have their roots in Andalusia, a region in southern Spain, but they are enjoyed throughout the country. Spanish albondigas are often served in tapas bars, typically in a rich tomato sauce.

How Should I Store This?

To store Albondigas Soup:

• Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the soup for up to 2-3 months. Place it in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Reheating: Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until it’s heated through. You may need to add a bit of water or broth if it has thickened.