Ciorbă de Perișoare (Romanian Meatball Soup)
Experience the comforting flavors of Romanian cuisine with Ciorbă de Perișoare, a traditional sour soup featuring tender meatballs in a lightly tangy, aromatic broth. Perfect for a cozy family meal, this soup balances savory, fresh, and slightly sour notes for a nourishing and satisfying dish.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 500g (1 lb) ground pork or a mix of pork and beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons rice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Soup:
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 parsnip, diced (optional)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1.5 liters (6 cups) water or chicken broth
- 2-3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2-3 tablespoons vinegar or lemon juice (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Prepare the Meatballs
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped onion, egg, rice, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly. Shape the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter).
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Cook the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, celery, parsnip, and red bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables begin to soften, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
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Simmer the Soup
Pour in the water or broth and bring to a gentle boil. Carefully add the meatballs to the simmering liquid. Reduce heat to low and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the rice inside is tender.
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Finish and Serve
Add fresh dill and vinegar or lemon juice to the soup. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, accompanied by crusty bread or sour cream if desired.
Serving
Ciorbă de Perișoare delivers a perfect combination of tender meatballs and a flavorful, slightly sour broth, making it a heartwarming staple in Romanian kitchens. Perfect for a chilly day or whenever comfort food calls.
