Ham meatballs

Ham meatballs - a simple and delicious recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4

If you are looking for a quick appetizer or a light lunch, ham meatballs are the perfect choice. These little delicacies are not only tasty but also extremely versatile, as they can be served in various ways. In this recipe, I will show you step by step how to make delicious meatballs with a crispy crust and a juicy interior, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:
- 300 g ham (preferably of good quality for a rich taste)
- 2 eggs
- 100 g flour or breadcrumbs (as preferred)
- 1 small onion (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 clove of garlic (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by grating the ham on a large grater. If you choose to add onion and garlic, chop them finely and set them aside. This addition will enhance the flavor of the meatballs, but it is optional, so you can omit it if you prefer a simpler recipe.

2. Mixing the composition: In a large bowl, add the grated ham, eggs, flour or breadcrumbs, and, if you chose, the onion and garlic. Mix all the ingredients well until the composition becomes homogeneous. The consistency should be firm enough to form meatballs; if it is too soft, you can add a little more flour or breadcrumbs.

3. Forming the meatballs: With wet hands, shape meatballs to your desired size. You can opt for small meatballs, ideal for appetizers, or larger ones to be served as a main dish. Place them on a plate.

4. Frying: In a large pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Make sure it is hot enough before adding the meatballs. Fry them in batches for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden and crispy. Do not overcrowd the pan to allow for even frying.

5. Draining excess oil: Once the meatballs are ready, remove them to a paper towel to absorb the excess oil. This is an important step to keep the meatballs crispy.

6. Serving: Ham meatballs can be served warm, alongside a yogurt or sour cream sauce, but also with a spicy tomato sauce. If you want a touch of freshness, you can add some chopped parsley or dill on top.

Practical tips:
- For a healthier version, you can bake the meatballs in the oven at 180°C for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through.
- Experiment with different spices, such as paprika or herbs, to give the meatballs a unique flavor.
- If you have leftover meatballs, you can store them in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheating can be easily done in a pan or in the oven.

These ham meatballs are not just a simple recipe but also an excellent way to transform ordinary ingredients into delicious dishes suitable for any meal. Enjoy your meal!