Marinated turkey meatballs

Marinated Turkey Meatballs

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

Welcome to the fascinating world of healthy cooking! Today, we invite you to discover the delicious recipe for turkey meatballs marinated in a flavorful sauce, perfect for a family dinner or a meal with friends. This recipe is not only a healthy choice but also one that satisfies the desire to experiment with new and interesting flavors.

The origin of meatballs is ancient, penetrating many culinary cultures around the world. They are often considered comfort food, bringing together simple ingredients to create a dish full of flavor.

Let's get started!

Ingredients:

- 500 g ground turkey
- 3 medium onions
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon white breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 2 bay leaves
- 2-3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 100 ml white wine
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 bunch fresh parsley

Step-by-step instructions:

Step 1: Preparing the meatballs

1. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, add the ground turkey. Add the egg, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix well with your hands or a spatula until all the ingredients are fully integrated. If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can also add some crushed garlic.

2. Shaping the meatballs: Using your palms, shape small balls, about the size of a walnut. These will become delicious and juicy meatballs.

3. Bread or not: If you want a crispy exterior, coat the meatballs in flour before frying them. If you are looking for a healthier option, you can bake them in the oven on a parchment-lined tray.

Step 2: Frying or baking the meatballs

4. Frying: In a deep skillet, heat a few tablespoons of oil (preferably olive oil) over medium heat. Add the meatballs and fry them on all sides until golden and crispy. This process will take about 5-7 minutes.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the meatballs on the lined tray and bake for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through to brown evenly.

Step 3: Preparing the sauce

6. Sautéing the onion: In the same skillet where you fried the meatballs, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion in 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent and soft, about 5-7 minutes.

7. Creating the sauce: Using an immersion blender, puree the onion until you have a creamy sauce. Then, add the tomato paste, white wine, bay leaves, and broth (or water). Let the sauce simmer on low heat until it thickens, about 10 minutes. Add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomato paste.

Step 4: Combining the meatballs with the sauce

8. Adding the meatballs: Once the sauce is ready, add the fried or baked meatballs to the skillet. Let them simmer in the sauce on low heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing them to absorb the delicious flavors.

9. Finishing touches: Before serving, add the freshly chopped parsley for a touch of freshness and an appealing look.

Serving suggestions:

The marinated turkey meatballs can be served with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta, and a fresh green salad can perfectly complement this dish. Additionally, a glass of white wine or a refreshing lemonade will pair wonderfully with this meal.

Useful tips:

- Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use chicken instead of turkey? Yes, this recipe also works very well with chicken.
- How can I store the meatballs? You can store the meatballs in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze them for later use.

- Variations: You can add herbs like basil or thyme for an extra flavor boost. Also, a bit of chopped hot pepper can add a touch of spice.

Nutritional benefits:

Turkey meat is an excellent source of lean protein, rich in essential nutrients like B vitamins, zinc, and selenium. This dish is ideal for a balanced diet, being low in fat, and the use of vegetables and fresh herbs adds important vitamins and minerals.

In conclusion, marinated turkey meatballs represent a healthy and tasty choice, perfect for any occasion. Experiment with the ingredients and discover the combinations that delight you the most. Don’t forget to let your imagination run wild in the kitchen! Enjoy your meal!