Sweet and Sour Meatball Recipe: A Flavor Explosion
This recipe will guide you through making juicy, flavorful meatballs coated in a tangy and sweet sweet and sour sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground meat (beef, pork, or a combination)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
Making the Meatballs:
- Combine Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough meatballs.
- Shape the Meatballs: Roll the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- Brown the Meatballs: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, then set aside.
Making the Sweet and Sour Sauce:
- Whisk Sauce Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, cornstarch, water, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Simmer the Sauce: Pour the sauce into the same skillet used for the meatballs. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
- Combine Meatballs and Sauce: Add the browned meatballs to the skillet and gently toss to coat them evenly in the sweet and sour sauce. Simmer for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the meatballs to absorb the flavors.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your sweet and sour meatballs over rice, noodles, or with a side of steamed vegetables. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for extra flavor and visual appeal. Enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms into the meatball mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
- Make it ahead: The meatballs can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat them gently in the sauce before serving.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of brown sugar. Conversely, add more for a sweeter taste.
- Different Meats: Experiment with different ground meats, such as turkey or chicken, for a leaner option.
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