Marinated Meatballs

Marinated meatballs: An irresistible delight for the whole family

Marinated meatballs are a fantastic choice, no matter the occasion. These little delights are not only slightly crispy on the outside but also surprisingly juicy and flavorful on the inside. Whether you serve them for lunch or dinner, marinated meatballs will bring a smile to anyone's face, including the little ones. Here’s how to prepare this delicious dish, step by step.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Your ingredients for meatballs:
- 600 g minced pork (you can also use a mix of minced meat, such as pork and beef, for a more complex flavor)
- 2 medium onions (choose white onions for a sweeter taste)
- 2 eggs (helps bind the ingredients)
- 2 slices of stale bread (ideally, use homemade bread as it contains no preservatives)
- 4-5 cloves of garlic (for an intense flavor; you can adjust the amount to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (sea salt is an excellent option)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper (freshly ground pepper adds a more intense aroma)
- A bunch of fresh dill (almost any fresh herb can be used; parsley is also a good choice)
- A bunch of fresh parsley
- 200 g flour for dusting (whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier option)
- 400 ml oil for frying (sunflower or peanut oil are the most suitable)

Ingredients for the sauce:
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (you can use fresh tomatoes for a fresher flavor)
- 250 ml plain water
- 3 tablespoons oil (the oil used for frying is perfect)
- 1 teaspoon wine vinegar (vinegar adds a note of acidity that balances the flavors)
- 1/2 teaspoon flour (to thicken the sauce)
- 2 cloves of garlic (adds more flavor)
- 2 bay leaves (for an extra taste)
- Salt and whole peppercorns (peppercorns add a note of refinement)

Preparing the meatballs:

1. Preparing the meat mixture: In a large bowl, add the minced meat. Add the finely chopped or grated onion – it will easily blend into the mixture and add moisture. If you want a more intense flavor, you can sauté the onion in a bit of oil before adding it.

2. Incorporate the ingredients: Add the whole eggs, the slices of bread soaked in water (well squeezed), crushed garlic, finely chopped dill, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper, then mix well with damp hands. This step is important to achieve a well-bound mixture.

3. Forming the meatballs: With damp hands, form balls the size of a plum. You can leave them round for a better texture or flatten them slightly, depending on your preference. Roll them in flour to achieve a crispy crust when frying.

4. Frying the meatballs: Heat the oil in a deep pot. Add the meatballs and fry them on all sides until golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. It is important not to overcrowd the pot to achieve even frying.

5. Preparing the sauce: In another pot, heat 3 tablespoons of oil and sauté the crushed garlic until golden. Add the tomato paste and mix well. Deglaze with plain water and vinegar, then add the bay leaves and peppercorns. Season with salt to taste.

6. Thickening the sauce: Dissolve the flour in two tablespoons of cold water and gradually add it to the sauce to thicken it. Mix well and let the sauce simmer on low heat for 2-3 minutes.

7. Finalizing the dish: Add the meatballs to the prepared sauce, mixing everything together. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes for the flavors to meld.

8. Serving: Marinated meatballs are served hot, sprinkled with freshly chopped parsley on top. You can also add a green salad or a side of mashed potatoes to complete the meal.

Practical tips:
- If you want an even more intense flavor, you can add spices like paprika or oregano to the meat mixture.
- Marinated meatballs can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days, and the flavor improves as they cool and marinate in the sauce.
- You can experiment with other types of meat, such as chicken or turkey, for a healthier option.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
A serving of marinated meatballs contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Pork provides essential proteins, while the herbs add vitamins and minerals. This dish is a good source of iron and B vitamins, contributing to immune system health and energy maintenance.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use chicken or turkey for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of meat you like, but the frying time may vary.

- How can I make the meatballs less fatty?
You can bake the meatballs instead of frying them, at a temperature of 180°C for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through.

- What side dishes go best with marinated meatballs?
Mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad are all excellent choices.

Marinated meatballs are a versatile dish, easily adaptable to your preferences and sure to become a family favorite. So get ready to share these delights with your loved ones, enjoying every bite!