Authentic German Meatball Soup Recipe {Klops Saupe}

German Meatball Soup, also known as Königsberger Klopse Suppe, is a traditional German soup made with meatballs cooked in a flavorful broth. The meatballs are typically made from a mixture of ground meat, breadcrumbs, eggs, onions, and seasonings, while the broth is often a combination of beef or vegetable stock, white wine, lemon juice, and spices. The soup is often garnished with capers and served with boiled potatoes or noodles.

German Meatball Soup originates from the region of East Prussia, which is now part of modern-day Germany. It is specifically associated with the city of Königsberg (now Kaliningrad, Russia). The dish gained popularity and spread throughout Germany, becoming a beloved comfort food.

The key ingredients used in this soup include ground meat (traditionally a mixture of beef and pork), onions, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, beef or vegetable stock, white wine, lemon juice, spices (such as parsley, nutmeg, and bay leaves), capers, and salt and pepper. Some variations may incorporate additional ingredients like grated lemon zest or cream for added flavor and richness.

The meatballs in this meatball soup are typically prepared by combining ground meat, rice, an egg, and seasonings. The mixture is then shaped into small meatballs, usually about an inch or so in diameter. The meatballs are then simmered in the broth until cooked through.

German Meatball Soup is commonly made with a flavorful broth, which can be either beef or vegetable stock. The stock is often enhanced with white wine, lemon juice, and spices like parsley, nutmeg, and bay leaves. The combination of these ingredients gives the soup its distinctive flavor.

Yes, you can make German Meatball Soup with alternative meat options to suit your dietary preferences or restrictions. While the traditional recipe calls for pork or a mixture of beef and pork, you can experiment with ground chicken, turkey, veal, or even plant-based ground meat substitutes. Adjusting the seasonings accordingly can help retain the authentic flavors of the soup.

German Meatball Soup is typically served hot and garnished with capers for added tanginess and flavor. It is traditionally accompanied by boiled potatoes or noodles, which are served alongside the soup. Some variations may also include a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley, as a finishing touch.

Yes, German Meatball Soup can be made ahead of time. In fact, like many soups, it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld together. Prepare the meatballs and simmer them in the broth, then allow the soup to cool before refrigerating it in an airtight container. When ready to serve, gently reheat the soup on the stovetop until heated through.

Yes, there are variations of German Meatball Soup that may vary by region or personal preference. Some variations include adding cream to the broth for a richer texture, using different types of meat or seafood for the meatballs, or incorporating additional vegetables such as carrots or celery. These variations allow for creativity and customization while still capturing the essence of the traditional German Meatball Soup.

Yes, German Meatball Soup can be frozen for later consumption. To freeze the soup, allow it to cool completely and transfer it to freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. Make sure to leave some space for expansion. When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat it on the stovetop. Note that the texture of the meatballs may slightly change after freezing, but the flavors will still be delicious.