The Sicilian Meatball Soup is a heartwarming dish that carries the authentic taste of Sicily in every bite. This recipe combines the rich flavors of meatballs, fresh vegetables, and savory broth, culminating in a soup that is both nutritious and tantalizingly delicious. It's perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you're in the mood for a comforting, home-cooked meal.
Our Sicilian Meatball Soup requires a few specific ingredients that might not be commonly found in your pantry. Keep an eye out for raisins and small pasta shells when you're at the supermarket. Raisins add a hint of sweetness to the meatballs, balancing the savory flavors. Small pasta shells are perfect for this soup as they soak up the tasty broth while retaining their shape and texture.
Ingredients for Sicilian Meatball Soup
Ground beef: This is the primary meat used for the meatballs. Lean ground beef is preferable as it maintains a good texture in the soup.
Fresh parsley: Parsley adds a fresh, herby flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Parmesan: Parmesan gives the meatballs a cheesy and nutty flavor.
Raisins: Raisins provide a sweet counterpoint to the savory ingredients.
Bread crumbs: They help bind the meatballs and add a slight crunch when cooked.
Egg: The egg acts as a binder for the meatballs, helping them hold their shape during cooking.
Garlic cloves: Garlic adds a pungent flavor that deepens the complexity of the soup.
Salt and black pepper: Basic seasoning for flavor enhancement.
Olive oil: Used for sauteing the vegetables and adds a subtle fruity note.
Carrots, onion, celery, and zucchini: These vegetables add a variety of textures and flavors to the soup, making it more wholesome.
Chicken broth: The base for the soup, chicken broth adds a rich, savory flavor.
Tomatoes in thick puree: They add a tangy taste and thicker consistency to the soup.
Dried rosemary: Aromatic herb that complements the flavors of the soup.
Small pasta shells: These tiny pasta pieces are perfect for soup as they add a lovely bite without overpowering the dish.
One reader, Clio Flick says:
This Sicilian meatball soup recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the meatballs are so tender and flavorful. The combination of ingredients creates a perfect balance, and the aroma while cooking is heavenly. It's a must-try for anyone who loves hearty and delicious soups.
Techniques for Crafting Sicilian Meatball Soup
How to prepare the meatballs: Mix together the ground beef, parsley, parmesan, raisins, bread crumbs, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper until thoroughly combined. Shape the mixture into meatballs.
How to sauté the vegetables: Heat the oil in a large pot over moderate heat. Add the carrots, onion, celery, and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables start to soften. Add the zucchini and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
How to simmer the soup: After adding the broth, tomatoes, and rosemary to the pot, bring the mixture to a boil. Then, reduce the heat and simmer, partially covered, for 10 minutes.
How to cook the pasta: Add the pasta to the soup and simmer for 5 minutes.
How to finish the soup: Stir in the meatballs and simmer gently for about 5 minutes longer until the meatballs and pasta are done. Serve with additional parmesan and enjoy!
How To Make Sicilian Meatball Soup
Savor a Mediterranean-style dish with this Sicilian meatball soup. It’s packed with fresh veggies and pasta cooked in a spiced tomato sauce for a rich meal!
Serves:
Ingredients
- ½lbground beef
- 5tbspfresh parsley,chopped
- ¼cupParmesan,grated
- 2tbspraisins
- 2tbspdry bread crumbs
- 1egg
- 5garlic cloves
- 2½tspsalt
- ½tspfresh ground black pepper
- 2tbspolive oil
- 2carrots
- 1onion
- 2celery ribs
- 1zucchini
- 6cupschicken broth,low-sodium, canned or homemade stock
- 1cuptomatoes in thick puree,canned, crushed
- ½tspdried rosemary
- 1cupsmall pasta shells,or other small macaroni
Instructions
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In a medium bowl, mix together the ground beef, 4 tablespoons of the parsley, the Parmesan, raisins, bread crumbs, egg, half of the garlic, ½ teaspoon of the salt, and ¼ teaspoon of the pepper until thoroughly combined
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Shape the mixture into 24 meatballs.
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In a large pot, heat the oil over moderate heat. Add the carrots, onion, celery, and the remaining garlic.
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Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables start to soften. Add the zucchini and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Stir in the broth, tomatoes, rosemary, and the remaining 2 teaspoons salt. Bring to a boil.
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Reduce the heat and simmer, partially covered, for 10 minutes. Add the remaining tablespoon parsley, ¼ teaspoon of pepper, and the pasta to the soup. Simmer for 5 minutes.
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Stir in the meatballs and simmer gently for about 5 minutes longer until the meatballs and pasta are done.
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Serve with additional Parmesan, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 536.96kcal
- Fat: 26.79g
- Saturated Fat: 8.46g
- Trans Fat: 0.67g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 13.25g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.37g
- Carbohydrates: 45.08g
- Fiber: 3.98g
- Sugar: 14.54g
- Protein: 28.75g
- Cholesterol: 97.37mg
- Sodium: 1507.14mg
- Calcium: 203.85mg
- Potassium: 1098.15mg
- Iron: 3.58mg
- Vitamin A: 342.26µg
- Vitamin C: 27.01mg
Pro Tip for Perfecting Sicilian Meatball Soup
When forming your meatballs, try to keep them all the same size. This ensures that they cook evenly and at the same rate. If some are larger than others, they may not cook through properly. A good tip is to use a small ice cream scoop or a tablespoon to measure out the meat mixture. This will help you achieve uniform-sized meatballs. Additionally, wetting your hands with a little water can prevent the meat from sticking to your hands while forming the balls.
Time-Saving Tips for Sicilian Meatball Soup
Prep ahead: Prepare the meatball mixture and chop the vegetables the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
Use a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly chop the vegetables for the soup, saving time on prep work.
Simultaneous cooking: While the soup is simmering, use that time to prepare the meatballs, allowing for efficient use of time in the kitchen.
One-pot wonder: Consider using a large pot to cook the soup and meatballs together, reducing the number of dishes to clean up later.
Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze half for a quick and easy meal on a busy day, saving time on future cooking.
Substitute Ingredients For Sicilian Meatball Soup Recipe
ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and can be used as a healthier alternative to ground beef. It has a similar texture and can be seasoned to mimic the flavor of beef.
parmesan - Substitute with pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano has a similar salty and tangy flavor to parmesan, making it a suitable substitute in the Sicilian meatball soup recipe.
raisins - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries can provide a slightly tart and sweet flavor similar to raisins, adding a different dimension to the soup.
dry bread crumbs - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs have a coarser texture and can provide a crispier coating for the meatballs.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth to make the soup vegetarian-friendly while still providing a flavorful base.
small pasta shells - Substitute with orzo: Orzo is a small pasta that can be used as a substitute for small pasta shells, adding a different texture to the soup.
Presenting Your Sicilian Meatball Soup
Elevate the meatballs: Gently place the meatballs in the center of the bowl, ensuring they are evenly spaced and not overcrowded. This will showcase the individuality of each meatball and create an inviting presentation.
Garnish with fresh parsley: Sprinkle a generous amount of freshly chopped parsley over the soup. The vibrant green color will add a pop of freshness and elevate the visual appeal of the dish.
Incorporate a drizzle of olive oil: Using a steady hand, drizzle a small amount of high-quality olive oil in a circular motion over the soup. This not only adds a touch of elegance but also enhances the flavors and textures of the dish.
Arrange the vegetables artfully: Carefully position the cooked vegetables around the meatballs, creating a visually appealing arrangement. The vibrant colors and varied textures will add depth and sophistication to the presentation.
Sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan: Using a fine grater, sprinkle a light dusting of freshly grated parmesan over the soup just before serving. The delicate snowfall of cheese adds a luxurious touch and a burst of savory flavor.
Serve in elegant soup bowls: Choose elegant soup bowls that complement the colors of the soup and allow the meatballs and vegetables to be the focal point. The right vessel can elevate the dining experience and showcase the artistry of the dish.
Essential Tools for Making Sicilian Meatball Soup
- Cutting board: A flat surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Chef's knife: A versatile and essential kitchen knife for chopping, slicing, and dicing.
- Mixing bowl: Used for combining ingredients and mixing.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurately measuring ingredients.
- Skillet: A frying pan used for sautéing and browning ingredients.
- Wooden spoon: Used for stirring and mixing ingredients while cooking.
- Soup pot: A large pot for making soups and stews.
- Grater: For grating cheese and other ingredients.
- Soup ladle: Used for serving soup.
- Tongs: For flipping and turning meat and vegetables while cooking.
- Soup bowls: Serving vessels for the finished soup.
- Soup ladle: Used for serving the soup.
- Colander: For draining pasta or washing vegetables.
- Can opener: For opening canned ingredients.
- Peeler: For peeling vegetables.
- Garlic press: For mincing garlic.
- Meat thermometer: For checking the internal temperature of meatballs.
- Pasta pot: A large pot specifically for cooking pasta.
- Cheese grater: For grating cheese.
- Whisk: For blending and mixing ingredients.
- Soup tureen: A serving dish for presenting the soup at the table.
Storing and Freezing Sicilian Meatball Soup
Allow the Sicilian meatball soup to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent the formation of harmful bacteria and ensure the best quality.
For short-term storage, transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will meld together, making the soup even more delicious the next day.
If you plan to freeze the soup, consider the following steps:
- Cook the pasta separately and add it to the soup when reheating. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy during the freezing and thawing process.
- Freeze the meatballs and soup separately for better texture. Place the cooled meatballs on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Pour the cooled soup (without pasta) into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Label the containers with the date and contents.
When freezing, make sure to use containers or bags that are suitable for low temperatures. Glass jars, plastic containers with tight-fitting lids, or heavy-duty freezer bags are all good options.
To thaw the frozen Sicilian meatball soup, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator the night before you plan to serve it. This allows for a gradual and safe thawing process.
When reheating the thawed soup, place it in a pot over medium heat and stir occasionally until it reaches the desired temperature. Add the cooked pasta and meatballs to the soup during the last few minutes of reheating.
If you prefer, you can also reheat the soup from frozen. Place the frozen soup in a pot and heat it over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. Add a little extra broth or water if needed to achieve the desired consistency.
Reheating Leftover Sicilian Meatball Soup
Reheat the sicilian meatball soup in a pot on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure that the meatballs and pasta are heated through without becoming overcooked or mushy.
If you're short on time, you can reheat individual portions of the soup in the microwave. Place the desired amount in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the soup is heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the meatballs and pasta to become tough.
For a quick and easy method, reheat the sicilian meatball soup in a slow cooker. Transfer the leftover soup to the slow cooker, cover, and heat on low for 1-2 hours, or until the soup is heated through. This method is particularly useful if you have a large quantity of leftover soup and want to keep it warm for an extended period.
If you find that the pasta has absorbed much of the broth during storage, you can add a little extra chicken broth or water to the soup while reheating to achieve the desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, as flavors may have mellowed during storage.
To add a fresh twist to leftover sicilian meatball soup, consider garnishing each serving with a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese, a dollop of pesto, or some crispy croutons. These toppings can help brighten the flavors and add a new dimension to the reheated soup.
Interesting Fact About Sicilian Meatball Soup
The Sicilian meatball soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the richness of meatballs with the comforting warmth of a soup. It is a traditional Sicilian dish that reflects the island's diverse culinary influences, including Italian, North African, and Arabic flavors. This dish is a perfect example of the fusion of different cultures in Sicilian cuisine, creating a unique and delicious flavor profile. The addition of raisins in the meatballs adds a touch of sweetness, balancing the savory flavors of the soup. It's a comforting and satisfying meal that brings together the best of Sicilian cuisine.
Budget-Friendly Sicilian Meatball Soup
This Sicilian meatball soup recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, including ground beef, vegetables, and pasta, are generally affordable and readily available. The use of simple, everyday ingredients makes it a budget-friendly option for families. The estimated cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $15-20, making it an economical choice for a hearty and satisfying meal. As a culinary chef, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and delicious flavors.
Is This Sicilian Soup Recipe Healthy?
The Sicilian meatball soup recipe contains a mix of healthy and less healthy ingredients. On the positive side, it includes:
- Lean ground beef, which is a good source of protein
- Plenty of vegetables like carrots, onion, celery, and zucchini that provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber
- Chicken broth, which is a lower-fat alternative to cream-based soups
- Tomatoes, which are rich in lycopene and other beneficial compounds
However, there are a few aspects that could be improved:
- The recipe calls for added salt, which may contribute to high sodium content
- Parmesan cheese and olive oil add saturated fat and calories
- White pasta shells are a refined carbohydrate
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Opt for lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef to reduce saturated fat
- Decrease the amount of added salt and rely more on herbs and spices for flavor
- Use whole wheat pasta shells to increase fiber content
- Add more vegetables, such as spinach or kale, to boost nutrient density
- Replace some of the pasta with additional vegetables or beans for a more balanced meal
- Use a low-fat parmesan cheese or sprinkle it sparingly as a garnish
- Choose a low-sodium chicken broth to control salt intake
By making these adjustments, you can enhance the nutritional value of the soup while still enjoying its comforting flavors. Experiment with different vegetable combinations and lean proteins to create a satisfying and wholesome meal that suits your taste preferences and dietary needs.
Editor's Take on This Sicilian Soup Recipe
This Sicilian meatball soup recipe is a delightful combination of savory and sweet flavors. The meatballs, infused with parsley, parmesan, and raisins, add a unique twist to the classic meatball soup. The addition of zucchini and pasta shells provides a comforting and hearty texture, while the aromatic blend of garlic, rosemary, and tomatoes creates a rich and flavorful broth. Overall, this recipe offers a satisfying and well-balanced dish that is sure to impress with its Sicilian-inspired flair.
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