Meatballs

Delicious Meatballs – a classic recipe that combines taste and tradition

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Rest time: 1-2 hours
Cooking time: 20-30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Who doesn’t love meatballs? These warm, crispy-on-the-outside and juicy-on-the-inside delights are an excellent choice for both family lunches and festive meals. Meatballs have a long and varied history, being a beloved dish in many cultures. Each recipe has its unique notes, and today I will guide you step by step in making perfect meatballs.

Necessary ingredients

- 1 kg minced pork (or a mix of pork and beef for a more complex flavor)
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1-2 heads of garlic (depending on preference)
- Spices to taste (salt and pepper)
- 4 eggs
- Oil for frying (choose an oil with a high smoke point, such as sunflower oil)
- Flour or sesame for coating the meatballs

Ingredient details

Pork is a classic choice for meatballs, providing a rich flavor and juicy texture. If you want a leaner option, you can choose beef or a mix. Dill and parsley are fresh herbs that not only add flavor but also a touch of color to the dish. Garlic, besides being a staple ingredient in many dishes, adds extra flavor and health benefits.

Preparation steps

1. Prepare the ingredients
Start by washing the eggs and vegetables well. Peel the garlic cloves, and if you choose to add onion and carrots, make sure to chop them very finely.

2. The meat mixture
In a larger bowl, place the minced meat. If you feel the texture is not fine enough, you can pass it once through the meat grinder. Add the spices, eggs, and chopped garlic, along with the finely chopped dill and parsley.

3. Forming the meatballs
Mix all the ingredients well until a homogeneous paste forms. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1-2 hours. This step is essential as it allows the flavors to blend and the meat to absorb the taste of the herbs and spices.

4. Shaping and frying
After the mixture has chilled, take a teaspoon of the mixture and shape the meatballs in your palm. Roll them in flour or sesame, depending on your preference. The oil in the pan should be hot but not smoking. Place the meatballs in the pan, ensuring the oil lightly covers their base for even cooking.

5. Finishing
When the meatballs turn golden and crispy, remove them to a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

Serving suggestion

Meatballs can be served alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. If you want to impress, add a yogurt sauce with garlic and dill, which will perfectly complement the flavor of the meatballs.

Nutritional values

These meatballs are an excellent source of protein due to the pork. Additionally, the fresh herbs add essential vitamins and minerals. It is important to portion the meatballs properly, so you can enjoy them without affecting your diet.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use chicken meat?
Absolutely! Chicken is a lighter choice and can bring a different texture to the meatballs.

- How can I make the meatballs fluffier?
You can add bread crumbs soaked in sweet milk to achieve a fluffier consistency.

- How can I store the meatballs?
You can freeze the fried or raw meatballs. Make sure they are well wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container.

Possible variations

If you want to experiment, you can add feta cheese to the mixture for a tangier flavor or spices like paprika or cumin to give them a distinctive note. You can also replace the eggs with a mixture of mashed potatoes for a vegetarian option.

A personal note

This meatball recipe reminds me of Sunday meals spent with family, when we all gathered around the table to enjoy delicious dishes. Everyone contributes, and the meatballs are always the stars. I encourage you to add your personal touch to this recipe by including your favorite ingredients. Enjoy your meal!