Azerbaijani Meatball Soup

A true home day - no errands, no distractions, just me, my kitchen, and the simple joy of cooking. Recipes and checklists swirled through my head, and to say I was in a happy place is an understatement.

The highlight was a pot of Kufte-Bozbash (Azerbaijani Meatball Soup), inspired by Lucy Sally Sommer, Javahir Cooking, and a few internet deep dives.

The recipe traditionally calls for ground lamb or beef - and sour plums, which I didn’t have - but barberries made a perfect stand-in. I tossed in carrots because, well, why not? Saffron was supposed to go in at the end… but I forgot. Oops. Still, it was delicious, and I regret nothing (except that it’s gone).

Kufte-Bozbash / Azerbaijani Meatball Soup

For the meatballs:

• 1 lb ground lamb

• 1 medium yellow onion, finely minced

• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced

• 1/2 cup medium-grain white rice, rinsed

• 1 Tablespoon ajika seasoning

• Pinch of dried mint

• Salt & pepper to taste

• 1/4 cup dried barberries

For the broth:

• 2 Tbsp butter

• 3 Tbsp tomato paste

• 8 cups water

For the soup:

• 6 medium potatoes, peeled and quartered

• 2 carrots, peeled and cut diagonally

• 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed

To make:

1. In a bowl, combine all the meatball ingredients. Shape into 4 large or 8 smaller meatballs, packing them tightly so they hold together while cooking. Set aside to rest.

2. In a large pot, melt the butter and stir in the tomato paste. Cook for about a minute, then add the water and bring to a boil.

3. Reduce the heat to medium and gently add the meatballs. Cook uncovered (no stirring!) for about 10 minutes.

4. Add the potatoes and carrots, bring back to a boil, then reduce heat again. Cover and simmer for about 40 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the meatballs are cooked through.

5. Add the chickpeas and heat through.

6. Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh or dried mint, and serve with a hearty bread.

If your household is anything like mine, the only regret will be that there aren’t any leftovers.

Let’s spread a little cozy kitchen inspiration!

If you make this recipe, I’d love to see it! Snap a photo and share it on Instagram - tag me @inspiredwellnesswithbarb so I too can admire your delicious creation.

Cozily yours,

~Barb