Baked meatballs

Delicious Baked Meatballs: A Healthy and Tasty Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to the world of flavors and tastes! Today we will prepare a baked meatball recipe that is not only easy to make but also much healthier than the fried version. These meatballs are not only delicious but also versatile, being able to be served hot or cold. Perfect for lunches, dinners, or as an appetizer at parties, these meatballs are truly a delight.

The history of meatballs is fascinating, with origins in different cultures around the world. They have evolved over time, adapting to the available ingredients and the culinary preferences of each region. Today, they are appreciated for their versatility, and the recipe we will use is simple and quick but full of flavor.

Ingredients:

- 600 g ground pork
- 1 medium onion
- 5 cloves of garlic
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Fresh or dried dill, to preference
- Flour, for coating the meatballs

Preparation:

1. Start by preparing all the ingredients. It is important to have everything at hand to make the process more efficient. Finely chop the onion and crush the garlic. These will add a special flavor to the meatballs.

2. In a large bowl, add the ground pork. It is essential to use fresh meat, preferably with a moderate fat content, to achieve juicy and tasty meatballs.

3. Add the onion and garlic to the bowl, along with the egg, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and dill (either freshly chopped or dried). Dill adds an extra flavor and is a classic ingredient in many meatball recipes.

4. Mix all the ingredients well with your hands or a spatula until the mixture becomes homogeneous. Don’t be afraid to use your hands – it’s the best way to ensure that all the ingredients are well integrated.

5. Once the mixture is ready, take a portion and form balls the size of a golf ball. Gently flatten them to achieve the desired shape.

6. Roll each meatball in flour, ensuring they are well coated. This step will help achieve a crispy crust during baking.

7. Place the meatballs on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave a little space between them to allow warm air to circulate during baking.

8. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Once the oven is ready, place the tray with meatballs inside and let them bake for 30-40 minutes. After 20 minutes, turn the meatballs to brown evenly on both sides.

9. When they are browned and have a golden crust, take the meatballs out of the oven. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Serving suggestions:

Baked meatballs can be served with a variety of sides. I recommend pairing them with a fresh vegetable salad or mashed potatoes. They can also be served with delicious sauces, such as tzatziki sauce or a spiced tomato sauce. For a complete meal, add a serving of rice or al dente pasta.

Tips and variations:

- You can experiment with different types of ground meat, such as chicken or turkey, for a lighter option.
- Add grated vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, to the meatball mixture for an extra nutrient boost.
- If you like spicy flavors, you can add a little chopped chili or spices like paprika.

Nutritional benefits:

These meatballs are an excellent source of protein, thanks to the pork, and also contain fiber from the added vegetables. Dill provides antioxidants, and garlic is known for its beneficial properties for the immune system. By baking them instead of frying, you significantly reduce the fat content, making them a healthier choice.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use beef instead of pork?
Yes, you can use beef, but keep in mind that it will have a different taste.

2. How can I store leftover meatballs?
Meatballs can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave.

3. Can I freeze the meatballs?
Absolutely! Meatballs can be frozen after they have completely cooled. Place them in an airtight container and keep them in the freezer. You can thaw and reheat them directly in the oven for a quick meal.

I hope you will try this baked meatball recipe and enjoy every bite! Cooking is an art that brings us together, and these meatballs can be a great reason to spend time with loved ones. Bon appétit!