| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 45 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 336 | 20g | 7g | 18g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 3g | 2g | 22g | 0.87g |
Why I Love Finnish Meatball Soup
There’s no question about it, this Finnish Meatball Soup recipe is one that is close to my heart. Each simmering pot creates an intoxicating aroma that wafts through my home, bringing back fond memories. Born and raised in Texas, my roots are deeply embedded in the fusion flavors of Tex-Mex, Southern and modern cuisine. So why, you may wonder, do I find myself so enamored with a Finnish recipe?
Embracing International Cuisine
Part of the joy of being a culinary explorer is the inclusive nature of food. The culture of a country, its traditions, and hospitality, all lie embedded in its cuisine. While my heart will always be drawn to the heat and depth of Tex-Mex flavors, I’ve found an equal joy in experimenting with international dishes. This Finnish Meatball Soup is a warm, comforting dish and it somewhat reminds me of a traditional Southern beef stew, hence my passion for it.
What Makes Finnish Meatball Soup so Special?
This isn’t just any Meatball Soup, it’s a Finnish staple. And it’s more than just its ingredients – it’s about how they all come together. The hearty meatballs comprised of ground beef and breadcrumbs, soaked in milk and seasoned to perfection. The finely chopped onions and carrots that bring a hint of sweetness. The potatoes that, once cooked, become a soft, pillowy addition. And, the rich, warm beef broth which brings everything together.
What stands out for me is that it’s a simple, no-fuss concoction perfect for weeknight dinners, yet unique enough to serve at a Nordic-themed dinner party. For inspiration, I often refer to master chefs like Rachel Khoo, known for her charm and easy-to-follow recipes that draw from world cuisine. But like every recipe, I’ve added my twist to the soup using a dash of dried thyme and a sprinkle of chopped parsley, bringing a note of freshness to the wholesome broth.
A Unique Blend of Flavors
This Finnish Meatball Soup is reminiscent of Italy’s classic minestrone, but it certainly has a character of its own. It’s also simple to modify based on your preference or diet. You can even make it vegetarian by swapping out the beef for a plant-based alternative and using vegetable stock instead of beef broth. As for pairing, a crusty garlic bread or a light salad works wonderfully to balance the robust flavors of this meal.
Whether you’re looking to experiment with Finnish cuisine or want an easy, hearty dinner option – give this a try! After all, food is how we express and share our love. It’s a universal language that we are all fluent in and every recipe is a new phrase worth learning.
What You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large carrot, chopped
- 2 potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
Method
Step One
Begin by combining the ground beef, finely chopped onion, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Mix everything together until the ingredients are well incorporated.
Step Two
Once your meat mixture is ready, you can start forming your meatballs. Using your hands, shape the meat into small round balls. Set aside once done.
Step Three
Next, heat up the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add your meatballs and cook until they’re brown on all sides. Remove the meatballs from the pot and set them aside.
Step Four
In the same pot, add the chopped carrot and potatoes. Cook until the vegetables are slightly softened.
Step Five
Once the vegetables are ready, return the meatballs to the pot. Add the beef broth, bay leaves, and dried thyme. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through and the flavors have melded together.
Step Six
Lastly, stir in the chopped fresh parsley for that final touch of freshness. Your Meatball Soup is now ready to enjoy!
