In a 6- to 8-quart pan, combine broth, tomatoes and their liquid, chiles, onion, basil, oregano, and hot pepper seasoning to taste. Bring to a boil over high heat.

Add rice; cover and simmer 15 minutes. Add meatballs; cover and simmer until meatballs are not pink in the center (cut to test), 10 to 15 minutes longer. Stir in the minced cilantro.

Ladle into bowls and garnish with cilantro sprigs. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Yield: about 5 quarts, 10 to 12 servings.

Meatballs:

In a large bowl, mix together until well blended:
1 pound ground lean beef
1/3 pound bulk pork sausage
1/2 cup cornmeal
1/4 cup milk
1 large egg
1 small (about 6-ounces) onion, minced
1 clove garlic, pressed or minced
1/2 teaspoon crumbled dried basil leaves

Instructions
Shape the mixture into about 3/4-inch balls. If making ahead, return the meatballs to bowl, cover, and chill up to 4 hours.