Romanian Meatball Soup

Instructions

1. 1

   In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, rice, egg, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Mix well to form a uniform mixture.

2. 2

   Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about the size of a walnut.

3. 3

   Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.

4. 4

   Add the diced carrots and red bell pepper to the pot and cook for another 5 minutes.

5. 5

   Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 more minutes.

6. 6

   Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.

7. 7

   Gently add the meatballs to the boiling broth. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the rice is tender.

8. 8

   Add the vinegar to the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

9. 9

   Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley.