Comfort food doesn't get much better than a big bowl of hearty elbow macaroni soup. This isn't your average, bland noodle soup; we're talking a rich and flavorful broth brimming with tender chunks of meat, colorful vegetables, and perfectly cooked macaroni. Imagine the satisfying chew of the pasta, the savory depth of the broth, and the delightful burst of fresh vegetables in every spoonful. It's the kind of soup that warms you from the inside out, perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend lunch. This recipe is easily adaptable to your favorite meats and vegetables, making it a versatile weeknight staple.
This recipe focuses on creating a delicious and balanced elbow macaroni soup, but feel free to customize it to your preferences. Whether you prefer beef, chicken, or a vegetarian option, the fundamental principles remain the same: a flavorful broth, perfectly cooked pasta, and a vibrant mix of vegetables. Ready to dive in and create this culinary masterpiece? Let's get started with our step-by-step guide!
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Blender
Ingredients
- Macaroni: 225g (1.5 cups)
- Ground beef (20% fat): 400g
- Very ripe tomatoes
- Garlic: 2 cloves
- Oregano: 1/4 teaspoon
- Coriander powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Ground pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Onion: 1/2
- Carrot: 1
- Zucchini: 1
- Bell pepper: 1/2
- Chayote: 1/2
- Cumin: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt
- Cilantro: 4 tablespoons
- Chipotle chilies: 2
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sauté and Brown
- Heat a little oil in a pot and fry the macaroni until golden brown. Remove from pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, fry the ground beef until cooked.
- Add the chopped onion, carrot, and garlic to the pot and fry for about 8 minutes.
- Add ground pepper, coriander powder, and oregano. Stir and let it boil for a while.
Step 2. Simmer the Soup
- Add 1.5 liters of water to the pot.
- Add the browned macaroni, chayote, and season with salt.
- Cover and cook over medium heat for 15 minutes.
Step 3. Add Finishing Vegetables
- Add zucchini and cook for another 10 minutes.
Step 4. Season and Serve
- Add chopped cilantro and 2 chipotle chilies (adjust to taste).
- Turn off the heat and serve.
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Tips
- Browning the macaroni adds a rich flavor to the soup.
- Use your preferred type of salt for seasoning.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes! While elbow macaroni is classic, you can substitute with other small pasta shapes like ditalini, shells, or even small rotini.
2. How can I make this soup vegetarian?
Simply omit the meat and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or lentils for extra protein and flavor. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth.
This hearty and flavorful elbow macaroni soup is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. From the simple preparation to the satisfying results, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the warmth and deliciousness of this classic dish!