Tomato Vermicelli Soup with Kafta Meatballs is a rich, hearty Lebanese dish that combines the bold flavors of seasoned meatballs with a tomato-based broth and delicate vermicelli noodles. The combination of savory kafta and tangy tomato creates a comforting balance, perfect for warming up on a chilly day. This soup is not only easy to prepare but also versatile. You can make the meatballs ahead of time or even freeze them for later. The vermicelli noodles add a light, slightly chewy texture that complements the rich broth, making this dish a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or cozy evenings at home.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the kafta (meatballs):
- 0.5 lb ground beef (250-300g)
- 1/4 onion, very finely diced or grated in food processor
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3/4 teaspoon all spice or seven spices
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of black pepper
For the soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup vermicelli noodles
- 1/4 cup tomato paste (55g)
- 6 cups water
- 1 chicken stock cube
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley (and more for garnish)
Directions:
- For the kafta (meatballs):
- Add all the ingredients in a large bowl and mix well until combined. You can shape the mixture into small meatballs.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and cook the meatballs until browned all over. Set aside.
- For the soup:
- In the same pot, add the olive oil and vermicelli noodles, and cook them for a few minutes until lightly toasted.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute.
- Add the water, chicken stock cube, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Lower the heat, add the cooked meatballs back to the pot, and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 336 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
A Hearty Lebanese Comfort Food
Tomato Vermicelli Soup with Kafta Meatballs is a dish that perfectly encapsulates the warmth and richness of traditional Lebanese cuisine. It’s a comforting, flavorful soup made with a tomato-based broth, delicate vermicelli noodles, and mini meatballs seasoned with aromatic Middle Eastern spices. The combination of these ingredients creates a dish that is hearty enough to serve as a main meal, yet light enough to enjoy as a warming starter.
The Origin and Cultural Significance of Kafta Soup
Kafta, also known as kofta in other parts of the Middle East and South Asia, refers to ground meat (usually beef or lamb) mixed with spices, herbs, and onions, then shaped into balls or patties. It’s a staple in Lebanese cuisine, often served grilled, in stews, or in this case, as meatballs in a flavorful soup. Kafta has deep roots in Lebanese food culture, where meals are often a celebration of flavors, colors, and textures.
In many Lebanese households, kafta is prepared as part of larger family meals or for special occasions. The spices used—such as allspice, cinnamon, and black pepper—are reminiscent of traditional Lebanese spice blends that add depth and warmth to every bite. The meatballs in this soup bring a sense of heartiness to the dish, providing the protein that balances the tangy tomato broth and soft noodles.
The Role of Vermicelli in Lebanese Soups
Vermicelli noodles, another key component of this soup, are thin strands of pasta commonly used in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cooking. These delicate noodles cook quickly and absorb the rich tomato broth, adding a subtle texture that pairs well with the tender meatballs. Vermicelli is often used in soups or rice dishes throughout Lebanon, making it a versatile ingredient that enhances the soup without overpowering the other flavors.
What’s particularly special about vermicelli is how it adds an element of lightness to an otherwise hearty dish. While the kafta meatballs provide a savory, protein-rich bite, the vermicelli noodles offer a lighter, softer texture that complements the rich broth. This balance between heavy and light elements is a hallmark of many Lebanese dishes, which aim to satisfy the palate without feeling overly indulgent.
Why This Soup Is So Special
This soup stands out because it’s both simple and deeply flavorful. The tomato base gives it a rich, tangy flavor that’s further enhanced by the spices in the kafta meatballs. Unlike more complex soups that require hours of simmering, this recipe is relatively quick, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting meal without too much effort.
The tomato broth itself is a vibrant red, thickened slightly by the tomato paste, and seasoned with salt, black pepper, and a chicken stock cube. It’s savory and bright, providing a refreshing contrast to the heavier meatballs. Each spoonful offers a satisfying blend of textures—soft noodles, tender meat, and rich broth—all tied together by the earthy flavors of parsley and spices.
For those who love Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors, this soup is an excellent way to experience the essence of Lebanese home cooking. It combines the bold, aromatic spices typical of the region with familiar ingredients like ground beef and noodles, making it accessible to a wide range of palates.
Health Benefits of Tomato Vermicelli Soup
In addition to its delicious taste, this soup is also packed with nutritional benefits. Tomatoes, the base of the soup, are rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants, including lycopene, which is known to have heart-healthy benefits and may reduce the risk of certain cancers. The tomato paste in this soup enhances these benefits, as cooking tomatoes can actually increase the availability of lycopene.
The kafta meatballs provide a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth, as well as maintaining energy levels throughout the day. The spices used in the kafta, such as allspice and cinnamon, not only add flavor but may also have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
Vermicelli noodles, made from wheat, are a good source of carbohydrates, which the body uses for energy. The dish is balanced in its macronutrients, providing a wholesome meal that can be easily adapted to suit dietary preferences. For instance, you can swap out beef for lamb or even use plant-based meat alternatives to create a vegetarian version of the soup.
How to Customize the Recipe
One of the great things about this soup is its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For example, if you’re looking to make the soup even heartier, you can add additional vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or spinach. These vegetables not only add more texture and color to the dish but also increase the nutritional content.
For those who prefer a spicier soup, adding a dash of chili flakes or cayenne pepper can give it a subtle heat without overwhelming the other flavors. Similarly, if you want to lighten the soup, you can reduce the number of meatballs or add more broth and noodles to stretch the dish further.
Another way to customize the soup is by playing with the herbs. While parsley is a traditional herb in Lebanese cooking, you can substitute it with cilantro, dill, or mint for a different flavor profile. You could also experiment with different types of stock—using beef or vegetable stock instead of chicken, for example—to change the overall taste of the broth.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This soup can easily be enjoyed on its own as a complete meal, but there are several ways to serve it that can elevate the dining experience. Traditionally, Lebanese meals are served with an array of mezze (small plates) that complement the main dish. Consider serving this soup alongside classic mezze like hummus, baba ghanoush, or a fresh tabbouleh salad for a well-rounded, flavorful meal.
For a heartier feast, you could pair the soup with warm, crusty bread or pita, perfect for soaking up the flavorful tomato broth. A side of Lebanese pickles or olives adds a salty, tangy contrast to the rich flavors of the soup, while a yogurt-based dip like labneh helps to cool and balance the spices.
If you’re entertaining, this soup also works well as an appetizer for a larger Lebanese or Mediterranean-inspired meal. Its simple, comforting flavors are sure to whet the appetite for other dishes like grilled kebabs, roasted vegetables, or rice pilaf.
Conclusion:
Tomato Vermicelli Soup with Kafta Meatballs is a true comfort food that brings the flavors of Lebanon right to your kitchen. Its combination of savory kafta meatballs, soft vermicelli noodles, and a rich tomato broth makes it a satisfying, nourishing meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends and family, this soup is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and comforting texture.
Its adaptability and ease of preparation make it an ideal dish for cooks of all skill levels. By adjusting the ingredients to suit your preferences, you can create a personalized version of this Lebanese classic that suits your taste and nutritional needs. All in all, this soup not only satisfies the stomach but also warms the heart, making it a beloved dish for many who enjoy Middle Eastern cuisine.