Mushroom meatballs with mixed meat

Delicious meat and mushroom meatballs

If you're looking for a recipe that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones, mushroom and meat mixed meatballs are the perfect choice! These meatballs are not only tasty but also versatile, ideal for a family dinner, a picnic, or even as an appetizer at a party. Let's start this culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 2 cans of mushrooms (350 g each)
- 1 kg minced meat (mix of pork, beef, and chicken)
- 2 large onions
- 1 head of garlic
- 4 medium-sized potatoes
- 2 eggs
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Fresh dill and parsley, chopped

A bit of history:
Meatballs have a long history, being a beloved dish in many cultures around the world. They are often an excellent way to use up leftover meat or vegetables, and the combination of adding mushrooms provides a rich flavor and pleasant texture.

Step by step in making the meatballs:

1. Preparing the mushrooms:
Start by draining the mushrooms well from the can. It's important to remove excess water to avoid a wet mixture. After draining, place the mushrooms in a food processor and process until they become a fine paste. Finally, let them sit in a strainer to drain any remaining liquid.

2. Chopping the vegetables:
In the same food processor, chop the onions and garlic. These will add flavor and aroma to the meatballs. If you prefer a stronger taste, you can sauté them in a little oil before adding them to the mixture.

3. Preparing the potatoes:
Peel the potatoes and cut them into cubes. Place them in a pot of water, add a pinch of salt, and boil until soft. Once cooked, drain them well and mash them lightly with a fork to create a puree. This will help bind the mixture.

4. Mixing the ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the minced meat with the mushroom paste, onions, garlic, potato puree, eggs, salt, and pepper. Add the chopped dill and parsley, mixing well until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. Use a spatula or your hands to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.

5. Forming the meatballs:
Wet your hands with a little oil to prevent the mixture from sticking. Take a portion of the mixture and shape it into round meatballs of your desired size. Make sure they are compact so they don’t fall apart during frying.

6. Cooking the meatballs:
In a deep skillet, heat enough oil to cover the bottom. When the oil is hot, add the meatballs, being careful not to overcrowd them to fry evenly. Fry on each side for 5-7 minutes until golden and crispy.

7. Serving:
The meatballs are delicious served hot, alongside a flavorful mustard and a slice of warm homemade bread. You can also add a fresh salad to complete the meal.

Helpful tips:
- If you want a healthier version, you can bake the meatballs in the oven at 180 degrees Celsius for 25-30 minutes. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to achieve a crispy crust.
- You can experiment with various spices, such as paprika or chili powder, to add an extra kick of flavor.
- Instead of potatoes, you can use grated zucchini or carrots, which will give a sweet note to the dish.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use fresh mushrooms? Yes, you can use fresh mushrooms, but make sure to sauté them to remove excess water.
- How can I store leftover meatballs? You can store the meatballs in the refrigerator, tightly closed in an airtight container, for 3-4 days. Reheat them in a skillet or oven.
- Can I freeze the meatballs? Absolutely! The meatballs can be frozen after being shaped, but before frying. Place them on a tray and put them in the freezer. Once frozen, you can transfer them to a freezer bag.

Delicious combinations:
These meatballs pair perfectly with various sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad. Additionally, a refreshing drink, like a natural tomato juice or a dry white wine, will perfectly complement the meal.

I hope this recipe inspires you to create delicious meatballs that will bring joy to your table! Don't forget to share this recipe with your friends and enjoy every delicious bite. Bon appétit!