Kololik Soup Recipe (Armenian Meatball Soup)

A comforting and hearty Armenian soup, Kololik is made with tender meatballs simmered in a flavorful broth, perfect for warming up on a chilly day.How to Make Kololik Soup: Armenian Meatballs in Broth

⏱️ Preparation Time: 20 minutes
🍳 Cooking Time: 30 minutes
🥄 Total Time: 50 minutes
👩‍🍳 Serves: 4

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

• 🥩 500g ground beef or lamb
• 🌾 1/4 cup bulgur (fine or medium grain, rinsed and drained)
• 🧅 1 small onion (grated)
• 🧄 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 🥚 1 egg
• 🌿 2 tbsp parsley (chopped)
• 🧂 1 tsp salt
• 🌶️ 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 🌱 1/2 tsp dried mint

For the Soup:

• 🧅 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 🥕 1 carrot (sliced)
• 🥔 2 potatoes (diced)
• 🍅 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 🌿 1 tsp dried mint
• 🥣 6 cups chicken or beef broth
• 🧈 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
• 🧂 Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 🍋 Lemon wedges (for serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatballs:

• In a bowl, combine all the meatball ingredients: ground meat, bulgur, grated onion, garlic, egg, parsley, salt, pepper, and mint.
• Mix until well combined, then form into small meatballs, about 1-inch in diameter.
• Set aside on a plate.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

• Heat butter or olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
• Stir in the carrot slices and cook for another 2 minutes.

3. Build the Broth:

• Add the tomato paste to the pot and stir for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
• Pour in the broth, then add the diced potatoes.
• Season with salt, pepper, and dried mint.

4. Simmer and Cook Meatballs:

• Bring the broth to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium.
• Carefully add the prepared meatballs to the pot.
• Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

5. Serve:

• Ladle the soup into bowls. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty garnish.