Marinated Meatballs

Name: Marinated Meatballs - Daciana D.
Ingredients: Meatballs: 500 g ground meat; garlic; fresh parsley; 4 slices of bread; salt; pepper; paprika; 2 eggs. Sauce: 1 bottle of broth; 1 tablespoon of flour; 1 onion; 1 bell pepper; bay leaves; 1/2 cup of water; 1 teaspoon of sugar; salt.

Diverse - Marinated Meatballs by Daciana D. - Recipia

Marinated Meatballs with Delicious Sauce: A Classic and Flavorful Recipe Preparation time: 20 minutes Cooking time: 50 minutes Total: 1 hour and 10 minutes Servings: 4-6 Marinated meatballs are a perfect choice for a simple yet flavorful meal that can bring the family together around the table. These delicious meatballs, rich in flavors and textures, are accompanied by a hearty sauce that turns every bite into a memorable experience. A Brief History of Meatballs Meatballs are a universal culinary dish, with deep roots in the gastronomic traditions of many cultures. Whether made from meat, vegetables, or fish, most variations of meatballs bring a sense of comfort and familiarity. This marinated meatball recipe is a reinterpretation of an old tradition, adapted to contemporary tastes, with simple and accessible ingredients. Ingredients for Meatballs: - 500 g minced meat (pork, beef, or a mix) - 4 slices of bread (preferably day-old) - 2 eggs - 1 large onion, finely chopped - 3-4 cloves of garlic, crushed - 1 bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped - Salt, pepper, and paprika to taste Ingredients for Sauce: - 1 bottle of tomato passata (approx. 700 ml) - 1 tablespoon of flour - 1 onion, chopped - 1 bell pepper, diced (preferably red for a pop of color) - 2-3 bay leaves - ½ cup water - 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance the acidity of the passata) - Salt to taste - Oil for sautéing Preparation Steps: 1. Preparing the Meatballs: - Start by finely chopping the onion and garlic. These will provide a deep flavor to the meatballs. - In a large bowl, add the minced meat, onion, garlic, soaked and well-squeezed bread, eggs, parsley, salt, pepper, and paprika. - Use your hands to knead all the ingredients until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. It is important not to over-knead to keep the meatballs fluffy. 2. Forming the Meatballs: - Lightly oil your hands (to prevent sticking) and form balls the size of a golf ball. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between them for even cooking. 3. Baking the Meatballs: - Preheat the oven to 180°C. Once it reaches the desired temperature, place the tray with meatballs inside and let them bake for about 50 minutes, until golden and well-cooked. In the meantime, you can prepare the sauce. 4. Preparing the Sauce: - In a skillet, add a little oil and sauté the onion and bell pepper over medium heat until they become soft and translucent. - Add the passata, water, sugar, bay leaves, and salt to taste. Stir everything and let it simmer over low heat for about 5 minutes. - In a small bowl, mix the 3 tablespoons of sauce with the flour and pour the mixture over the sauce in the skillet, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens. Serving Suggestions: Marinated meatballs are served hot, covered with the rich sauce, alongside a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh vegetable salad. A crusty bread can perfectly complement the meal, giving loved ones the chance to enjoy every drop of sauce. Possible Variations: - You can experiment with different types of meat, such as turkey or chicken, for a lighter version. - Add spices like cumin or coriander for a distinct flavor. - Replace the bread with breadcrumbs or oats for a gluten-free option. Nutritional Benefits: These meatballs are not only delicious but also nutritious. The minced meat provides essential proteins, while the parsley adds vitamins and antioxidants. The tomato sauce is rich in lycopene, a beneficial compound for heart health. This recipe is an excellent choice for a hearty meal that can feed the whole family. Frequently Asked Questions: - Can I freeze the meatballs? Yes, uncooked meatballs can be easily frozen. Place them on a tray and freeze, then transfer them to an airtight container. Bake them directly from the freezer, adjusting the cooking time. - What other sauces can I use? Instead of tomato sauce, you can try a garlic yogurt sauce or a white sauce for a creamier option. Calories: One serving (3 meatballs) contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the type of meat used. This may vary based on additional ingredients added to the sauce. Marinated meatballs are a simple yet satisfying recipe that will surely bring smiles to your loved ones' faces. Whether you prepare them for an everyday dinner or a special occasion, these meatballs will surely become a family favorite. Enjoy your meal!

Marinated Meatballs

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