Onion with mayonnaise and pork meatballs

Onion with mayonnaise and pork meatballs – a savory and filling appetizer!

In every kitchen, there are recipes that quickly become favorites, and the combination of onion with mayonnaise and pork meatballs is undoubtedly one of those delights that brings family and friends together around the table. This recipe is not only tasty but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for parties or informal gatherings. Get ready to discover a dish that will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a touch of nostalgia to your soul!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 6

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 kg onion
- 2 l water
- 2 tablespoons vinegar
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 eggs (one for mayonnaise and one for meatballs)
- 200 ml oil (for mayonnaise and frying)
- Salt, to taste
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 400 g ground pork
- 2 slices of bread
- 100 ml milk
- Greens (parsley or dill)
- Pepper, to taste

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the onion:
Start by peeling the onion. Cut it into thin julienne strips using a sharp knife or a food processor to achieve perfect slices. This step is crucial as the onion will become softer and more aromatic during cooking.

2. Boiling the onion:
Bring the water to a boil in a large pot and add the 2 tablespoons of vinegar and the bay leaves. This mixture will infuse the onion with flavors and help reduce its strong taste. Once the water starts boiling, add the sliced onion along with a pinch of salt. Let it boil for 10 minutes, being careful not to over-soften it – we want to keep a crunchy texture.

3. Draining the onion:
After 10 minutes, remove the onion from the water and let it drain in a sieve. If necessary, you can gently squeeze it with your hands to remove excess water. This step will ensure that the onion does not dilute the mayonnaise.

4. Preparing the meatballs:
In the meantime, take the two slices of bread and soak them in milk. Let them sit for a few minutes, then squeeze them well. In a large bowl, mix the ground pork with the soaked bread, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and the egg. Form meatballs, making sure to keep them uniform in size for even cooking.

5. Frying the meatballs:
Heat oil in a deep frying pan. When the oil is hot, add the meatballs and fry them until golden brown on all sides. Turn off the heat and remove them onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

6. Preparing the mayonnaise:
In a small bowl, add an egg yolk, mustard, and a pinch of salt. Start whisking with a whisk or an immersion blender, gradually adding the oil until the mayonnaise becomes smooth and creamy. Be careful not to curdle it – if you notice the mayonnaise becoming too thick, you can add a little water or lemon juice to adjust its consistency.

7. Assembling the appetizer:
In a bowl or platter, start assembling the dish. Add a layer of onion with mayonnaise, about the thickness of a finger, then add the meatballs. Continue alternating layers of onion and meatballs, finishing with a final layer of onion. If desired, you can garnish with a few greens for a more attractive appearance.

8. Serving:
You can serve the appetizer immediately, but if you let it chill for a few hours, the flavors will intensify, and the dish will achieve a better consistency. It pairs perfectly with a fresh salad or even with a side of fries for a hearty lunch.

Stories and variations:
This recipe for onion with mayonnaise and pork meatballs has its origins in family culinary traditions, being a dish that has been enjoyed on various occasions. You can adapt the recipe by using chicken or turkey meat for the meatballs, or you can add different spices, such as sweet paprika or herbs, to give it a touch of originality.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use red onion? Yes, red onion will add a sweeter taste and vibrant color to the dish.
- How can I make the mayonnaise lighter? You can replace part of the oil with Greek yogurt for a healthier version.
- What can I do with the leftovers? Remaining meatballs can be used in sandwiches or salads.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe is rich in protein due to the pork and egg, and the onion brings antioxidants that support cardiovascular health. Additionally, the greens add essential vitamins and minerals.

Remember, cooking is an art, and each recipe is an opportunity to explore new flavors and techniques. So, don't be afraid to experiment and bring your personal touch to this delicious dish! Enjoy your meal!