MedlinePlus: Meatball Soup

Ingredients

• 2 Tablespoons uncooked white rice
• 1/4 cup grated carrot or zucchini
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion, divided
• 1 1/4 cup finely chopped tomato, divided
• 1 egg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano or 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh mint or 1/4 teaspoon dried mint (optional)
• 8 ounces ground meat, 15% fat or less (beef, chicken, turkey or pork)
• 1/4 cup plain bread crumbs (optional)
• 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
• 6 cups low-sodium broth (any type)
• 1 or 2 sprigs fresh oregano or 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder or 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
• 2 cups chopped vegetables (fresh, frozen or canned)