Chicken Meatball Soup

From the book Cooking from the Heart by Michael J. Rosen

Serves

6

Introduction

This recipe comes from Mary Sue Milliken, a chef, restaurant owner, cookbook writer, and Food Network host.

Ingredients

	3	garlic cloves, minced
	1	bunch fresh cilantro, leaves chopped, stems discarded
	1	Tbsp. salt
	1½	tsp. freshly cracked black pepper
	1	lb. ground chicken, preferably dark meat
	1	large egg, beaten
	⅔	cup fresh breadcrumbs
	⅓	cup vegetable oil
	1	large onion, diced
	4	medium carrots, diced
	¼	head green cabbage
	1 to 2	jalapeño peppers, stemmed, seeded, and julienned
	3	medium plum tomatoes, cored, seeded, and diced
	10	cups chicken stock
	1½	cups cooked rice or small pasta such as orzo (optional)
	3	Tbsp. white vinegar

Steps

1. Combine the garlic, cilantro, 1 tsp. each salt and pepper, chicken, and egg in a mixing bowl. Stir in the breadcrumbs.
2. Roll the meat mixture between your palms into walnut-size balls. Place them on a tray, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Heat 2 Tbsp. of the vegetable oil in a large stockpot over high heat. Add the onion, carrots, 2 tsp. of salt, and the ½ tsp. of pepper. Sauté for about 3 minutes. Add the cabbage, jalapeños, and tomatoes and cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are soft, about 3 minutes. Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer, uncovered, for 15 minutes.
4. Heat the remaining oil in a medium skillet over medium heat until nearly smoking. Add the chilled meatballs in batches, shaking the pan to prevent sticking. Brown the meatballs on all sides and transfer them with a slotted spoon to paper towels to drain.
5. Add the cooked meatballs to the simmering soup and cook for an additional 5 to 10 minutes. For a heartier version, add the rice or pasta if desired. Stir in the vinegar.

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