Marinated Meatballs

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!