Meatballs in tomato sauce

Name: Meatballs in tomato sauce
Ingredients: 700 g mixed pork and beef meat; 1 tablespoon rice; salt and pepper to taste; 1 onion; a bunch of herbs (dill); 3 eggs. Sauce: 1 smaller onion; a 800 g jar of homemade tomato sauce; salt; pepper; thyme; bay leaves; 3 cloves of garlic; 1 cup of white wine; 30 ml oil.

Meat - Meatballs in tomato sauce by Adriana J. - Recipia

Meatballs in tomato sauce: a delicious and comforting recipe Meatballs in tomato sauce are a classic dish, full of flavor and memories, that can bring a smile to anyone's face. Whether you serve them as a main course or as a delicious snack, these meatballs are ideal for any occasion. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step to achieve the tastiest meatballs, with a fragrant and savory tomato sauce. Preparation time: 30 minutes Cooking time: 30 minutes Total: 1 hour Servings: 4 Ingredients For the meatballs: - 700 g mixed pork and beef - 1 tablespoon rice - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 medium onion, finely chopped - A bunch of herbs (dill or parsley) - 3 eggs For the tomato sauce: - 1 small onion, chopped - 800 g tomato puree (preferably homemade for a more authentic taste) - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 2 bay leaves - 3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped - 1 cup of white wine (optional) - 30 ml olive oil or sunflower oil Preparing the meatballs 1. Preparing the meatball mixture: In a large bowl, combine the minced pork and beef with the finely chopped onion, rice, salt, pepper, herbs, and eggs. Mix the ingredients well with your hands or a spatula until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. It is important that all the ingredients are well incorporated to obtain tender and tasty meatballs. 2. Forming the meatballs: With wet hands, shape balls the size of walnuts, ensuring they are uniform so they cook evenly. 3. Boiling the meatballs: In a large pot, add water and bring it to a boil. When the water starts to boil, add a teaspoon of salt and then carefully place the meatballs in the water. Boil them for about 15-20 minutes or until they become fluffy and rise to the surface. Once they are ready, remove the meatballs with a slotted spoon and place them in a colander to drain. 4. Cooling the meatballs: To remove the foam produced during boiling, rinse the meatballs under a stream of cold water. This step not only improves appearance but also the final texture. Preparing the tomato sauce 1. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large skillet, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant. 2. Adding the puree: Incorporate the tomato puree into the skillet, then season with salt, pepper, thyme, and add the bay leaves. Mix well and let the sauce simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes to concentrate the flavors. 3. Adding the wine: If you choose to use white wine, add it now. Let the sauce simmer for another 5 minutes so that the alcohol evaporates, leaving only the aroma. 4. The perfect combination: Once the sauce is well seasoned, add the boiled meatballs to the skillet and gently mix to coat them with the sauce. Let everything simmer together for 10 minutes so that the meatballs absorb the flavors of the sauce. 5. Finishing the dish: Before serving, remove the bay leaves and sprinkle fresh herbs on top. Serving Meatballs in tomato sauce can be served alongside a side of mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice, depending on your preferences. A fresh green salad can perfectly complement the meal. You can also add grated Parmesan or sour cream for an extra burst of flavor. Frequently asked questions - Can I use chicken instead of pork and beef? Yes, you can use minced chicken, but make sure to add a little oil to the mixture to maintain moisture. - How can I make the sauce spicier? You can add chopped chili peppers or chili flakes to the sauce to give it a spicy kick. - Can I freeze the meatballs? Yes, this is an excellent recipe for freezing. Cook the meatballs, let them cool completely, and then place them in freezer bags. You can thaw and heat them in the tomato sauce. Nutritional benefits Meatballs are a good source of protein due to the meat, while the rice provides complex carbohydrates. Onion and garlic are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and the tomato sauce is rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the body. Possible variations - Vegetarian meatballs: You can replace the meat with a mixture of finely chopped vegetables such as zucchini, carrots, and mushrooms, combined with quinoa or rice. - Herb tomato sauce: Instead of thyme, you can use fresh basil or oregano for a Mediterranean flavor. A personal note This meatballs in tomato sauce recipe reminds me of family nights spent together, when we gathered around the table and each had a role in preparing this dish. I recommend trying it and personalizing it with your favorite flavors. Perhaps you will create unforgettable memories around the table too! Enjoy every bite and savor the exquisite aroma and taste of meatballs in tomato sauce!

Meatballs in tomato sauce

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