In a large mixing bowl, combine the meat and spices listed for the meatballs. Mix gently, just until combined, then portion out into 1 1/2’’ to 2 ‘’ thick meatballs onto wax paper.
In a large pot, coat the bottom with a thin layer of olive oil, and heat over medium-high. When oil is hot, add the meatballs and brown each side—4-5 minutes per side. When meatballs are cooked and browned (the meat will not be as glossy as red meats that render more fat, but that's okay!), turn off heat and remove from the pan. Repeat for any remaining meatballs. If the pan is black and crusty on the bottom, deglaze with water, and rinse before cooking onions and garlic.
Make the soup:
Over medium-low heat in the same pan, add 4 Tbsp more olive oil and heat until shimmery. Add onions, sweet potato, chili flakes, garlic, and salt and pepper to taste. Cook until ingredients are tender and aromatics are translucent—10-12 minutes.
When aromatics are cooked down, add the white wine, and scrape the brown bits at the bottom of the skillet. Add in the chicken stock and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 15 minutes. Salt and pepper to taste, and make sure sweet potatoes are tender.
Add the beans and meatballs to the broth and simmer for another 15 minutes. Finally, add the spinach and stir until leaves are wilted. Serve with fresh herbs and freshly shaven cheese. Enjoy!
Notes
This recipe has been updated with new text from October 2019, but the recipe is unchanged.