A comforting Filipino soup featuring fine wheat noodles (misua) and flavorful meatballs, complemented by patola (sponge gourd) and garnished with green onions and fried garlic bits.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 500gground pork or beef
- 1piecesmall onion, finely chopped
- 3clovegarlic, minced
- 1piecesmall carrot, grated (optional)
- 1pieceegg
- 1/4cupbreadcrumbs
- 2tbspsoy sauce
- 2tbspoyster sauce
- 1tbspcornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Soup
- 1bundlemisua (fine wheat noodles)
- 1piecesmall onion, chopped
- 3clovegarlic, minced
- 1piecethumb-sized piece of ginger, julienned
- 1piecemedium patola (sponge gourd), peeled and sliced into thin rounds
- 1Lchicken broth or water
- 2tbspfish sauce (patis)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2tbspcooking oil
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Fried garlic bits (for garnish)
How to make Filipino Misua with Meatballs
Making the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine ground pork or beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, grated carrot (if using), egg, breadcrumbs, soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
In a skillet, heat some cooking oil over medium heat.
Fry the meatballs until they are browned on all sides. They don't need to be fully cooked at this stage as they will finish cooking in the soup.
Set the meatballs aside.
Making the Soup
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil over medium heat.
Sauté the chopped onion, minced garlic, and julienned ginger until they are fragrant and the onion is translucent.
Pour in the chicken broth or water and bring it to a boil.
Add the fish sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Gently drop the fried meatballs into the pot. Let them cook in the simmering broth for about 10 minutes.
Add the patola slices and cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until they are tender.
Add the misua noodles. These cook very quickly, so let them simmer for just 2-3 minutes or until tender.
Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Serving
Ladle the soup into bowls, making sure to include meatballs, vegetables, and noodles in each serving.
Garnish with chopped green onions and fried garlic bits.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
This version highlights the patola, adding a mild sweetness and soft texture to the soup, making it a delicious and comforting meal.
FAQS
How do I make Filipino Misua with Meatballs step by step?
To make Filipino Misua with Meatballs, start by mixing ground pork or beef with chopped onion, minced garlic, grated carrot (if using), egg, breadcrumbs, soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Form small meatballs and fry them until browned. In a pot, sauté onion, garlic, and ginger, then add chicken broth or water and bring to a boil. Add fish sauce, drop in the meatballs, and let them simmer for about 10 minutes. Add sliced patola and cook for another 3-5 minutes before adding misua noodles. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, adjust seasoning, and serve garnished with green onions and fried garlic bits.
Is Filipino Misua with Meatballs suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Filipino Misua with Meatballs is not suitable for a gluten-free diet due to the use of misua noodles, which are made from wheat. However, you can substitute the misua with gluten-free noodles or rice noodles to make this dish gluten-free. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of noodles you choose.
What can I use as a substitute for patola in this recipe?
If you can't find patola (sponge gourd), you can substitute it with zucchini or yellow squash. Both options will add a similar texture and mild flavor to the soup. Just slice them thinly and add them to the broth at the same stage you would add the patola.
How should I store leftovers of Filipino Misua with Meatballs?
To store leftovers of Filipino Misua with Meatballs, let the soup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing it. Just be aware that the noodles may become softer when reheated, so it's best to cook them fresh if possible.
What are some good side dishes to serve with Filipino Misua with Meatballs?
Filipino Misua with Meatballs is a comforting dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. You can serve it with steamed rice for a heartier meal, or enjoy it alongside a fresh salad or vegetable side like sautéed greens. For a traditional touch, consider serving it with a side of lumpia (Filipino spring rolls) for added crunch and flavor.
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