Meatballs alla Ela

Meatballs alla Ela – Delicious meatballs in aromatic sauce

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Meatballs alla Ela is a recipe that brings together tradition and innovation, offering you a delicious meal full of flavors. These juicy meatballs are accompanied by a rich sauce that transforms each serving into an unforgettable culinary experience. The recipe is simple, but the result is impressive, perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. Let's begin the culinary adventure!

Necessary ingredients

- 1 kg boneless pork shoulder or ground meat
- 4-5 medium onions
- 1 bell pepper (optional, depending on preferences)
- 1 cup of rice (approximately 200g)
- 1 egg
- 1 liter of broth or tomato paste
- 1-2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried)
- 1 teaspoon basil (fresh or dried)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for sautéing the onion

Preparing the meatballs

1. Preparing the onion: Chop the onion into very small cubes. In a non-stick pan, add a little oil (start with room temperature oil to preserve nutrients) and add the onion. Stir constantly to prevent burning. When the onion becomes translucent, add a few tablespoons of broth and let it simmer for a few minutes, then remove from heat and let cool.

2. Preparing the meat: Wash the meat and let it drain well. Cut it into cubes and grind it through a meat grinder 3-4 times until you achieve a fine texture. This will ensure that the meatballs are juicy and well bound.

3. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat with the sautéed onion (which has now cooled), one cup of rice, and the egg. Mix well, then add salt, pepper, thyme, and basil to taste. Adjust the quantities based on personal preferences, but do not overdo the spices to avoid masking the meat's flavor.

4. Forming the meatballs: Grease your hands with a little oil to prevent the mixture from sticking and form meatballs of the desired size. Place them on a plate, ready to be cooked.

Preparing the sauce

1. Preparing the sauce: In a large pot, add the remaining broth, 1-1.5 liters of water, bay leaves, and chopped bell pepper (or left whole if you wish to remove it later). Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and basil to taste.

2. Cooking the meatballs: When the sauce starts to boil, carefully add the formed meatballs, being careful not to break them. Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for about an hour, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This cooking time will allow the meatballs to absorb the rich flavors of the sauce.

Helpful tips for a perfect result

- Choosing the meat: You can use pork, but also beef or a mix of meats, depending on preferences. Pork provides a juicier texture.
- The rice: Make sure the rice is well washed before use to remove excess starch. This will help keep the meatballs light.
- The sauce: If you want a thicker sauce, you can add a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch dissolved in cold water, mixing well to avoid lumps.

Serving suggestions

These meatballs can be served with fresh pasta, mashed potatoes, or a side of sautéed vegetables. A glass of red wine or a refreshing lemonade will pair perfectly with this savory meal. Additionally, a fresh green salad will add a pleasant contrast and a touch of freshness.

Nutritional benefits

These meatballs are rich in protein due to the meat and egg, while the rice provides essential carbohydrates. The onion and spices add not only flavor but also antioxidants that contribute to a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions

- What can I use instead of pork? You can use beef or chicken, but adjust the cooking time according to the type of meat used.
- How can I store the meatballs? You can keep the cooked meatballs in the refrigerator for 2-3 days or freeze them for quick meals in the days to come.
- Can I use other vegetables in the sauce? Yes, you can add carrots, zucchini, or even mushrooms for a richer and more colorful sauce.

Possible variations

- Cheese meatballs: Add feta or mozzarella cheese to the meat mixture for extra flavor.
- Spicy meatballs: Add chopped chili pepper to the meat mixture for a spicier taste.
- Vegetarian version: Use ground lentils or tofu instead of meat, adjusting the spice quantities to compensate for the lack of meat.

These Meatballs alla Ela are more than just a meal; they are a culinary experience that will bring your family and friends together. Experiment with ingredients and spices to adapt them to your tastes. Enjoy your meal!