When the chilly evenings roll in, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Masa Ball Soup to soothe the soul. I discovered this dish while experimenting with ingredients in my kitchen, hoping to break free from repetitive weeknight meals. The vibrant aroma of chicken stock simmering, mingling with the earthy scent of masa and the tang of horseradish, instantly lifted my spirits.
What sets this soup apart is the delightful masa balls that float like little clouds in the rich broth—comforting and satisfying, yet surprisingly easy to make. It’s a dish that brings back memories of family gatherings, where laughter filled the air and the kitchen was alive with warmth. Perfect for those nights when comfort food is a must, this recipe not only pleases the palate but also showcases a beautiful fusion of textures.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to a delicious homemade meal, this Masa Ball Soup fits the bill perfectly. Let’s dive into this cozy recipe that will warm your heart and home!
Why is Masa Ball Soup so comforting?
Comforting warmth: This dish envelops you with its hearty flavors, perfect for chilly evenings.
Unique masa balls: The fluffy masa balls add a delightful twist that makes every spoonful a joy.
Rich, savory broth: The combination of chicken stock and fresh ingredients creates a soul-warming base.
Easy to make: With straightforward steps, it’s perfect for home cooks of all levels!
Crowd-pleaser: Serve it at gatherings, and watch it disappear—everyone will love it!
Try this comforting masterpiece alongside other cozy recipes from my collection!
Masa Ball Soup Ingredients
For the Masa Balls
• Masa harina – A key ingredient that gives the balls their unique texture and flavor.
• Manteca (lard) – Adds richness and depth to the masa balls, but feel free to substitute with vegetable shortening for a lighter option.
• Grated horseradish – Introduces a zesty kick that elevates the flavor profile beautifully.
• Kosher salt – Essential for enhancing the overall taste of the masa mixture.
• Baking powder – Helps the masa balls puff up just right during cooking.
• Large eggs – Binds the mixture together, ensuring fluffy masa balls.
• Water – To achieve the perfect consistency of the masa mixture; adjust as needed.
For the Soup
• Chicken stock – The heart of the dish, delivering a savory foundation that complements the masa balls perfectly.
• Chicken legs – Provides tender, flavorful meat that makes the soup hearty and filling.
• Onions – Halved and bruleed, they infuse a caramelized sweetness to the broth.
• Distilled white vinegar – A dash brightens the flavors in the broth, balancing richness.
• Kosher salt (to taste) – Season to your liking once the broth is complete.
For the Vegetables
• Thinly sliced celery – Adds a fresh crunch and subtle flavor to the soup.
• Roasted thinly sliced carrots – Sweetens the broth and complements the other ingredients.
• Chopped fresh cilantro – A sprinkle at the end adds freshness and a pop of color.
Enjoy crafting your delicious Masa Ball Soup by gathering these simple yet flavorful ingredients!
How to Make Masa Ball Soup
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Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the masa harina, melted manteca, grated horseradish, kosher salt, baking powder, beaten eggs, and 3/4 cup water. Stir until completely blended, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
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Prepare Broth: In a large pot, pour in the chicken stock and add chicken legs and halved onions. Heat over medium, bringing to a simmer. Cook for about an hour until the broth reduces by one-quarter, then strain out the onions. Remove chicken skin, shred the meat, and set it aside.
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Season Broth: Add distilled white vinegar and a pinch of kosher salt to the strained broth, stirring well to enhance the flavors.
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Cook Masa Balls: Return the enriched broth to medium-high heat and bring it back to a simmer. Form the chilled masa mixture into 8 balls and gently drop them into the broth. Cook for about 5 minutes until they are heated through.
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Add Vegetables: Stir in the thinly sliced celery, roasted carrots, and reserved shredded chicken. Cook until the soup bubbles again, around 2 minutes. Finally, mix in the chopped cilantro and serve warm.
Optional: Garnish each bowl with extra cilantro for a refreshing touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Masa Ball Soup
Fridge: Store any leftover Masa Ball Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or stock to restore consistency.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Freeze the masa balls separately if possible, to maintain their texture when reheating.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove over medium heat. Add a bit of chicken stock or water to revive the soup’s freshness and flavor.
Storage tips: Label your containers with the date to keep track of freshness. Always ensure the soup has cooled completely before sealing to avoid condensation.
What to Serve with Masa Ball Soup?
A warm bowl of this hearty delight pairs beautifully with various sides that enhance its comforting essence.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, crusty bread adds a delightful crunch that complements the soup’s rich textures.
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Simple Green Salad: A light, fresh salad with lemon vinaigrette helps cleanse the palate between sips of savory broth. Think of vibrant greens and a touch of tang to harmonize with the soup.
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Roasted Potatoes: Crispy, seasoned potatoes introduce a satisfying bite, providing a crispy contrast to the fluffy masa balls. They can be seasoned with herbs to further elevate the flavor.
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Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Flaky and warm, these biscuits add a comforting touch, melding perfectly with the soup’s flavors.
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Steamed Vegetables: Bright, seasonal veggies offer a hint of sweetness and vary in texture—great for enjoying with the meal.
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Herbal Tea: Complement the hearty flavors with a warm cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or peppermint, for a soothing finish to your meal.
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Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, a rich and gooey chocolate lava cake provides a decadent end, balancing the savory soup with a burst of sweetness.
Each of these pairings enhances the experience of savoring your delicious Masa Ball Soup, creating a memorable meal for friends and family!
Expert Tips for Making Masa Ball Soup
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Chill the Masa: Refrigerating the masa mixture for at least 1 hour helps the balls hold their shape while cooking, avoiding any doughy texture.
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Don’t Overcook Broth: Straining the broth reduces the potential bitterness from overcooked onions. Keep your broth savory and smooth for an exquisite masa ball soup.
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Perfect Ball Size: Form masa balls about the size of a golf ball for even cooking; too small may disintegrate, while too large may stay raw inside.
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Taste as You Go: Season the broth with kosher salt gradually to ensure you don’t overpower the flavors. Start light, and adjust as needed!
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Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh cilantro and quality chicken stock for an enriching taste that elevates your masa ball soup to restaurant quality.
Make Ahead Options
These Masa Ball Soup components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the masa mixture up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the masa harina, manteca, horseradish, salt, baking powder, and eggs, then refrigerating it. The broth can also be made up to 3 days ahead; simply simmer the chicken stock with the chicken legs and onions, then strain and refrigerate the broth. To maintain the rich flavors, be sure to store the broth in an airtight container. When ready to serve, just reheat the broth, cook the masa balls as directed, and add in the vegetables and shredded chicken for a quick and satisfying meal. Enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!
Masa Ball Soup Variations
Feel free to play with this recipe and create a version that excites your taste buds!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute masa harina with a gluten-free flour blend to enjoy this dish without gluten.
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Vegetarian: Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock and replace chicken with mushrooms for a hearty texture.
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Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the masa mixture for a delightful heat that complements the flavors.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or dill for a fragrant twist that brightens the broth.
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Creamy Variation: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer, velvety soup.
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Savory Touch: Include diced smoked sausage or chorizo in the broth for an additional layer of savory flavor that’s simply irresistible.
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Roasted Veggies: Toss in roasted bell peppers or zucchini to enhance the flavor and add a variety of textures.
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Nutty Flavor: Incorporate a tablespoon of toasted sesame oil into the broth for a unique twist that adds depth.
Every bite can tell a new story—prepare to be amazed by the delightful possibilities!
Masa Ball Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right masa harina?
Absolutely! Look for masa harina that is finely ground and labeled specifically for tortillas or tamales. The color should be a light cream to pale yellow, indicating freshness. If you notice any dark spots or an off odor, it’s best to pass. I often recommend brands like Maseca for consistent results.
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
Very! You can store leftover Masa Ball Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or stock to help rejuvenate the soup’s consistency. Gently warm it over medium heat on the stovetop for the best results.
Can I freeze Masa Ball Soup?
Of course! To freeze the soup, pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space at the top to allow for expansion—this will get you up to 3 months of deliciousness! For better texture, freeze the masa balls separately. When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge and warm it gently on the stovetop.
What if my masa balls fall apart during cooking?
No worries! If the masa balls break apart, it’s likely due to the mixture being too wet or not chilled sufficiently. To troubleshoot, ensure the masa batter is thick enough to hold its shape and refrigerate it for at least an hour before forming the balls. This helps them firm up nicely for cooking.
Are there dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! If you have dietary restrictions, you can substitute the manteca with vegetable shortening or coconut oil for a vegan option. Additionally, if you or your guests have egg allergies, you can try using a flaxseed meal substitute (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg) that binds well in the masa mixture.
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover roast chicken works wonderfully in this recipe. Just shred it and add it to the broth when combining with vegetables. It adds a great depth of flavor and is a lovely way to use up extra chicken from a previous meal!
Hearty Masa Ball Soup for Cozy Nights In
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine the masa harina, melted manteca, grated horseradish, kosher salt, baking powder, beaten eggs, and 3/4 cup water. Stir until completely blended, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- In a large pot, pour in the chicken stock and add chicken legs and halved onions. Heat over medium, bringing to a simmer. Cook for about an hour until the broth reduces by one-quarter, then strain out the onions. Remove chicken skin, shred the meat, and set it aside.
- Add distilled white vinegar and a pinch of kosher salt to the strained broth, stirring well to enhance the flavors.
- Return the enriched broth to medium-high heat and bring it back to a simmer. Form the chilled masa mixture into 8 balls and gently drop them into the broth. Cook for about 5 minutes until they are heated through.
- Stir in the thinly sliced celery, roasted carrots, and reserved shredded chicken. Cook until the soup bubbles again, around 2 minutes. Finally, mix in the chopped cilantro and serve warm.