Turkey meatballs

Turkey meatballs are a light yet flavorful appetizer, perfect for any occasion. These little delights are not only tasty but also healthy, providing a lighter alternative to traditional meatballs made from pork or beef. Additionally, they can be served hot or cold, making them ideal for parties or family meals. Let's discover together how to prepare these delicious meatballs!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 500 g ground turkey
- 1 egg
- 1 large onion
- 5 cloves of garlic
- Salt, pepper, dill, parsley, thyme (to taste)
- Oil for frying (preferably olive oil or sunflower oil)

Preparation

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by finely chopping the onion and garlic. These will add a special flavor to your meatballs. Use a sharp knife to achieve uniform cuts that are easier to manage. If you want to save time, you can use a food processor to chop them.

2. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, add the ground turkey, chopped onion and garlic, egg, and spices (salt, pepper, dill, parsley, and thyme). Mix all the ingredients well with a spatula or your hands until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. It is important that all ingredients are well integrated so that the meatballs have a uniform texture.

3. Shaping the meatballs: Wet your hands with a little water to prevent the mixture from sticking, and form the meatballs. The ideal size is about a golf ball, but you can make smaller or larger meatballs depending on your preferences. Ensure that all meatballs are similar in size for even cooking.

4. Frying the meatballs: In a large skillet, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the meatballs, taking care not to overcrowd the pan (you can fry in batches). Fry them for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they become golden and crispy. It is important not to flip them too early to avoid breaking them.

5. Serving the meatballs: Once the meatballs are ready, remove them to a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Serving can be simple: place the meatballs on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs. They pair wonderfully with fresh vegetables such as carrots, cucumbers, or cherry tomatoes, and also with a yogurt or tzatziki sauce for added flavor.

Practical tip

If you want to make the meatballs even healthier, you can add some grated vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, to the mixture. These not only add nutrients but also a pleasant moisture to the meatballs.

Nutritional benefits

Turkey meat is an excellent source of lean protein, low in saturated fats, making it an ideal choice for a healthy lifestyle. Additionally, onion and garlic are rich in antioxidants and have beneficial effects on the immune system.

Possible variations

If you want to experiment, you can try adding different spices, such as paprika or cumin, for a more intense flavor. You can also replace the turkey with chicken or smoked turkey for a distinctive aroma.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the raw or cooked meatballs. Make sure to place them in an airtight container to prevent them from sticking together.

2. What other side dishes go well with turkey meatballs?
These meatballs pair perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad.

3. Can I use ground meat from another type of meat?
Of course! The meatballs can also be made with chicken, pork, or beef. Each variation will bring a different flavor.

Turkey meatballs are not only a simple and quick recipe but also an excellent way to bring family and friends together at the table. Don't hesitate to try them and personalize them to your preferences! Enjoy your meal!