Meatballs in tomato sauce with spätzle (noodles)

Name: Meatballs in tomato sauce with spätzle (noodles) - Ionela P.
Ingredients: 600; 800 g minced chicken meat; 1 carrot; 1 white onion; 1 bunch of fresh parsley; 4 tablespoons of tomato paste; salt with spices; a few preserved sun; dried tomatoes with capers; 3 tablespoons of olive oil; 400 ml chicken broth; one pack of spaetzle; sweet/spicy paprika.

Meat - Meatballs in tomato sauce with spätzle (noodles) by Ionela P. - Recipia

Meatballs in tomato sauce with spatzle: A simple and delicious recipe for the whole family Preparation time: 20 minutes Cooking time: 30 minutes Total time: 50 minutes Number of servings: 4 Who can resist a classic, warm dish that combines the flavor of meatballs with a rich tomato sauce and fluffy spatzle? This recipe is not only an explosion of flavors but also a great way to bring the family together at the table. Moreover, spatzle are a fantastic alternative to traditional pasta, providing a unique texture and distinct taste. The history of meatballs is fascinating! They have evolved over the centuries and are found in many cultures, each contributing its own twist to the recipe. Today, I will present you with a simple and tasty version, perfect for a savory dinner. Ingredients: - 600 - 800 g minced chicken (you can also use beef or pork, depending on your preference) - 1 carrot (about 100 g) - 1 white onion (approximately 100 g) - 1 bunch of fresh parsley (for an extra flavor) - 4 tablespoons of tomato paste - Seasoned salt (salt, pepper, herbs to taste) - A few sun-dried tomatoes with capers (for an intense flavor) - 3 tablespoons of olive oil - 400 ml chicken broth (preferably homemade, but cube broth is okay too) - A pack of spatzle (available in stores, easy to prepare) - Sweet or hot paprika (to taste) Preparation: 1. Preparing the ingredients: Wash the onion and carrot well. Peel the onion and chop it into small pieces, ensuring they are small enough to blend into the meatball mixture. Grate the carrot finely, and chop the parsley. These vegetables will not only add flavor but also a boost of nutrients. 2. Mixing the meatball mixture: In a large bowl, combine the minced meat with the chopped vegetables (onion, carrot, and parsley). Add salt and your preferred spices, making sure to mix well to evenly distribute the flavors. Form larger meatballs, keeping in mind they will shrink while cooking. 3. Frying the meatballs: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a deep pan. Add the meatballs and a few sun-dried tomatoes. Let them brown on all sides. This step is essential to achieve a delicious crust and seal in the meat's juiciness. 4. Preparing the sauce: Once the meatballs are browned, add the chicken broth, tomato paste, salt, paprika, and mix well. Let the sauce simmer on low heat, covering the pan with a lid. This will allow the flavors to meld and the meatballs to cook evenly, becoming tender and juicy. 5. Preparing the spatzle: In a separate pot, bring water to a boil, adding a pinch of salt. When the water boils, add the spatzle and let them cook according to the package instructions. They are ready when they puff up and float to the surface, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Do not leave them too long, as they can become mushy. 6. Serving: Once the meatballs are cooked and the sauce has thickened, turn off the heat and let them sit covered for a few minutes. Serve the meatballs hot, alongside the spatzle, and for a pleasant contrast, add some pickled cucumbers or pickles, which will bring a note of freshness. Useful tips: - You can experiment by adding different spices to the meat mixture, such as garlic or cumin, for an even more intense flavor. - If you don't have chicken broth, you can use water, but the sauce will have a less rich taste. - Spatzle can be replaced with classic pasta or even rice, depending on your preferences. Frequently asked questions: 1. Can I use ground meat? Yes, you can use beef or pork, but chicken is lighter and less fatty. 2. How long can I store the meatballs? They can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in an airtight container. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stove. 3. What drinks go well with this dish? A light beer or a dry white wine pairs perfectly. If you prefer non-alcoholic beverages, you can opt for a cold fruit tea. 4. How can I vary the sauce? You can add olives or capers to the sauce for a more intense flavor. Additionally, you can try adding a bit of sour cream for a creamier sauce. Nutritional benefits: This recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken, and the vegetables add essential fiber and vitamins. Spatzle contains complex carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy. Moreover, using olive oil adds healthy fats to the diet. Estimated cost: Preparing this dish is affordable, with the ingredients costing around 20 lei, making it an excellent choice for a delicious yet economical dinner. If you want to bring a touch of originality to your plate, feel free to experiment with spices or try other side dish variations. Perhaps a fresh green salad or mashed potatoes would add an extra flavor! Try this simple and tasty recipe for meatballs in tomato sauce with spatzle and enjoy a warm and aromatic meal with your loved ones!

Meatballs in tomato sauce with spätzle (noodles)

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