Looking for a warm, comforting meal packed with protein, flavor, and nostalgia? Traditional Porcupine Soup brings together ground beef and rice meatballs simmering in a rich tomato broth. Despite the name, this dish includes no porcupines—the meatballs get their name from the rice poking out like quills. It’s hearty, budget-friendly, and perfect for cozy nights.
Why It’s Called Porcupine Soup
The name “porcupine soup” comes from the meatballs’ appearance. As the rice cooks and expands, it sticks out from the beef meatballs, making them resemble tiny porcupines. This fun, family-friendly porcupine soup recipe has been handed down for generations.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 3 cups beef broth or water with bouillon
- 1 teaspoon dried basil or parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional:
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
- Grated parmesan for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Porcupine Meatballs
First, combine ground beef, uncooked rice, chopped onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Then mix everything thoroughly with your hands. After that, shape the mixture into 1- to 1.5-inch meatballs and set them aside. This process ensures perfect porcupine meatballs for your soup.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Next, heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes until they soften and release their aroma. This step is essential in building flavors for your porcupine soup.
3. Build the Soup Base
Now, pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth. Stir in dried basil or parsley, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and let the flavors combine. A well-balanced base is key to an excellent porcupine soup.
4. Add the Meatballs
Carefully place the meatballs into the simmering broth. Then lower the heat, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 45 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent the meatballs from sticking to the bottom. The meatballs in porcupine soup need to cook thoroughly.
5. Taste and Serve
Finally, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Ladle it into bowls and top with fresh parsley or parmesan before serving. Your porcupine soup is now ready to enjoy.
Tips and Variations
- Add spice: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give your porcupine soup a little kick.
- Use brown rice: Just let the soup simmer a bit longer to cook the rice through. Brown rice adds a nutty flavor to porcupine soup.
- Make it gluten-free: Choose certified gluten-free broth and Worcestershire sauce for a gluten-free porcupine soup.
- Store for later: Pour cooled soup into airtight containers and freeze it for up to 3 months. Refrigerate leftover porcupine soup for a quick meal.
What to Serve with Porcupine Soup
- Crusty bread or garlic toast pair perfectly with porcupine soup.
- Simple green salad
- Roasted vegetables on the side
Final Thoughts
Traditional Porcupine Soup offers a nostalgic taste of home-cooked comfort. With its hearty meatballs and savory tomato broth, it’s perfect for both busy weeknights and slow weekend meals. You’ll appreciate the simplicity and flavor in every spoonful. Enjoy a comforting bowl of porcupine soup today.
So why not give it a try? Fill your kitchen with the rich aroma of this timeless recipe and enjoy a meal that warms both the body and the heart.