Albondigas Soup

Serves:

Ingredients:

1/2 c Minced fresh cilantro -(coriander)
3 qt Regular-strength beef broth
1 lg Can (28 oz.) crushed tomatoes
1 lg Can (7 oz.) diced green chiles
1 lg (about 1/2-lb.) onion, chopped
1 1/2 ts Crumbled dried basil leaves
1 1/2 ts Crumbled dried oregano leaves
1/2 To 1 tsp. liquid hot pepper seasoning
1/2 c Long-grain white rice
Meatballs (recipe follows)
Cilantro sprigs (optional)

Method:

Salt and pepper In a 6- to 8-quart pan, combine broth, tomatoes and their Liquid, chiles, onion, basil, oregano, and hot pepper Seasoning to taste.
Bring to a boil over high heat.
Add rice; cover and simmer 15 minutes.
Add meatballs; Cover and simmer until meatballs are not pink in the Center (cut to test), 10 to 15 minutes longer.
Stir in the minced cilantro.
Ladle into bowls and garnish with cilantro sprigs.
Add Salt and pepper to taste.
Makes about 5 quarts, 10 to 12 Servings.
MEATBALLS: In a large bowl, mix together until well blended: 1 pound GROUND LEAN BEEF 1/3 pound BULK PORK SAUSAGE 1/2 cup CORNMEAL 1/4 cup MILK 1 large EGG 1 small (about 6 oz.
) ONION, minced 1 clove GARLIC, pressed or minced 1/2 teaspoon crumbled DRIED BASIL LEAVES.
Shape the mixture into about 3/4-inch balls.
If making ahead, return the meatballs to bowl, cover, and chill up to 4 hours.