Instructions: In a large soup pot, saute the onions in bacon grease. Cut the tomatoes into the pot, reserving their juice, and cook down for 10 to 15 minutes. Add the reserved tomato juice, stock, green chiles, 1/4 teaspoon cumin, and cilantro. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

While the soup is simmering, make the albondigas: Mix the ground beef, egg, garlic, 1/4 teaspoon cumin, salt, and pepper. Shape into tiny (marble-sized) balls.

When ready to serve, carefully drop the albondigas into the simmering soup. When they float, turn the heat off, cover the pot, and hold for 10 minutes (unless you like your garlic really strong - in which case, serve immediately!). If you are serving a meal, put a big spoonful of Spanish rice in each bowl first. Otherwise, ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with fine strips of warmed flour tortillas topped by a fresh cut lime round.

Serve hot to 8 to 10 as a substantial first course. Serve hot to 4 to 6 over a big spoonful of Spanish rice (with lots of salad and tortillas on the side) for lunch or dinner.

Comments: This superb and superbly flavored Mexican soup - contributed by Margaret Pacillas of El Paso, Texas - can be a wonderful start to a meal - or a completely satisfying meal in itself.

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