Sopa de Albondigas

by Laura Altamirano

December 25, 2025

Prep15 min
Cook45 min
Servings6-8

Soup version of albondigas.

Ingredients

Olive Oil2 Tbsp
Onions3 Cups
Garlic4 cloves
Bay Leaves2 small
Beef Broth78 1/2 oz
Tomatoes in Juice1 28 oz can
Tomato Salsa (medium-hot)1/2 Cup
Fresh Cilantro1/2 - 3/4 Cup
Ground Beef1 Lb
Bulk Pork Sausage1/4 Lb
Yellow Cornmeal6 Tbsp
Milk1/4 Cup
Egg1 large
Salt1/2 tsp
Pepper1/2 tsp
Cumin1/2 tsp
Long-Grain White Rice1/2 Cup
Zucchini (chopped)1 1/2 Cups

Directions

  1. Heat oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat.

  2. Add 1 3/4 cups onions, 2 garlic cloves, and the bay leaves. Saute 5 minutes.

  3. Add the broth, tomatoes with juice, salsa, and half the cilantro.

  4. Bring to a boil. Then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.

    If you want softer zucchini, toss them in at some point during this 15 minute simmer.

  5. Meanwhile, combine the beef, pork sausage, cornmeal, milk, egg, salt, pepper, cumin, the remaining onions, garlic, and cilantro in a bowl. Mix it well.

  6. Shape the meat mixture into 1" to 1.25" balls.

  7. Toss the meatballs, rice, and zucchini into the soup. Bring the soup back to a boil.

  8. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, until the rice is tender and the meatballs are cooked. Add salt and pepper to taste and enjoy!