Baked meatballs with herbs

Baked Herb Meatballs – A Healthy and Tasty Delicacy

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Who doesn't love a serving of aromatic meatballs? These baked herb meatballs are not only delicious but also a healthy option, perfect for a family meal or a quick dinner. With simple ingredients and an easy preparation method, today’s recipe will help you achieve a perfect result every time.

A Brief History of Meatballs

Meatballs have a long history, being a popular dish in many cultures around the world. They are essentially a combination of minced meat with various ingredients, giving them a distinctive flavor. Over time, each region has developed its own variant, adding local ingredients and spices. Baked, these meatballs become a healthier choice, retaining their juiciness and flavor.

Ingredients

- 700 g minced meat mix (pork and beef or other preferred combinations)
- 1 new potato (or 2 small ones)
- 1 slice of bread (preferably whole grain for added nutrients)
- 3-5 green garlic stalks
- 3-4 green onion stalks
- A handful of fresh parsley
- A handful of fresh dill
- 1-2 eggs (depending on consistency)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste

How to Prepare Baked Herb Meatballs

1. Preparing the Ingredients
Start by washing the potato under cold running water. Peel it and grate it using a fine grater. This will give the meatballs a fine texture and keep them moist.

2. Chopping the Herbs
Clean the onion and garlic, then wash them well. Use a blender to finely chop them, or if you prefer, you can chop them by hand. This will enhance the flavors and make the meatballs more delicious.

3. Chopping the Parsley and Dill
Wash the parsley and dill thoroughly, then remove the thicker stems. Finely chop them and add them to the bowl with the meat. These herbs will not only add flavor but are also full of vitamins.

4. Mixing the Composition
In a large bowl, add the minced meat, grated potato, chopped herbs, bread soaked in water (squeezed and crumbled), eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until all the ingredients are well combined. It’s important not to overmix to keep the meatballs tender.

5. Shaping the Meatballs
Preheat the oven to 180°C. While the oven is heating, take a baking tray and line it with parchment paper. Shape the meatballs into round or oval forms, depending on your preference, and place them on the tray, leaving a little space between them.

6. Baking the Meatballs
Place the tray in the preheated oven and let the meatballs bake for about 30 minutes or until they become golden and crispy on the outside. It is recommended to turn them halfway through the baking time for even browning.

7. Serving
Once ready, take the meatballs out of the oven and let them cool slightly. You can serve them alongside a fresh salad, mashed potatoes, or a side of steamed vegetables. A yogurt sauce with dill and garlic will perfectly complement them.

Practical Tips for a Perfect Result

- Choosing the meat: A mix of pork and beef is ideal, but you can experiment with chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
- The bread: Using whole grain bread not only improves the nutritional value of the dish but also adds a more complex flavor.
- Spices: You can add spices like paprika, cumin, or basil to vary the flavors.
- Variations: Instead of potato, you can use grated zucchini or carrots for a different flavor and added nutrients.

Nutritional Benefits

These meatballs are rich in protein due to the meat, and the herbs add essential vitamins and antioxidants. The potato provides complex carbohydrates, offering energy for the whole day, while the egg helps bind the ingredients and is also high in nutrients.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use soy meat or tofu?
Yes, for a vegetarian option, you can replace the meat with soy meat or tofu, adding extra spices to enhance the flavor.

2. Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes, the meatballs can be frozen before baking. Make sure to store them in an airtight container.

3. How can I improve the texture?
If you feel the mixture is too wet, you can add breadcrumbs or more crumbled bread.

4. What drinks pair well with the meatballs?
A dry white wine or a flavored iced tea are excellent choices. Additionally, a green smoothie can be a healthy option.

These baked herb meatballs are not just a delicious meal but also an excellent way to include more vegetables in your daily diet. I invite you to try this recipe and share the results with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!