Meatballs in red wine sauce

Meatballs in red wine sauce: A recipe that combines tradition with flavor

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

Who doesn't love a warm and comforting meal, full of aromas and love? Meatballs in red wine sauce are a dish that brings the family together around the table, offering not only an exceptional culinary experience but also a taste story that satisfies the desire for comfort and warmth. Combining ground meat with a rich sauce and adding fresh vegetables, this recipe becomes a feast for both the taste buds and the soul.

Before we dive into the cooking process, let's take a look at the essential ingredients that will transform this recipe into a culinary masterpiece.

Ingredients:

- 300 g mixed ground meat (pork and beef)
- 300 g finely ground sausage meat
- 1 egg
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 onion
- 5 carrots, halved
- 200 ml red wine
- 500 ml beef broth
- Meat spices (salt, pepper, spices of choice)
- Butter for frying

Preparing the meatballs:

1. The meat mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground pork and beef with the finely ground sausage meat. This mixture will bring a richer texture and deep flavor to your meatballs. Add the egg, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and your favorite spices. A good idea would be to use a mix of Mediterranean spices for an extra flavor boost.

2. Kneading: Use your hands to thoroughly mix the mixture, ensuring that all ingredients are evenly integrated. It is essential not to over-knead the mixture to avoid tough meatballs.

3. Forming the meatballs: Using a spoon, form small meatballs. The size can vary according to your preferences, but a standard size is about 3-4 cm in diameter.

4. Frying the meatballs: In a large skillet, add the butter and let it melt over medium heat. Once the butter is hot, add the meatballs and fry them until golden on all sides. This step will add a crunchy exterior texture that will perfectly contrast with the soft interior.

Preparing the red wine sauce:

5. The aromatic sauce: Once the meatballs are fried, remove them from the skillet and set them aside. In the same skillet, pour in the red wine and let it simmer over medium heat to reduce and concentrate the flavors. This is a wonderful opportunity to use a quality wine that will enhance the sauce's taste.

6. Adding the broth: After the wine has reduced slightly, add the beef broth. Stir well, bringing the sauce to a boil. The liquid in the skillet should be enough to cover the carrots, so if necessary, top up with a little broth.

7. Adding the vegetables and meatballs: Add the halved carrots and the fried meatballs to the red wine sauce. Finally, add the halved onion, which will add sweetness to the sauce. Cover the skillet and let it simmer over medium heat for 1 hour, turning the meatballs every 15-20 minutes to ensure they cook evenly.

Serving the meatballs:

8. Finalizing the dish: When the carrots are tender and the meatballs are juicy, the dish is ready. This is a perfect time to taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings if necessary.

9. Serving suggestions: These meatballs in red wine sauce are delicious served alongside boiled pasta, with a sprinkle of grated parmesan on top for extra flavor. Additionally, a celery mashed potato will perfectly complement this dish, bringing a touch of elegance and refinement.

Practical tips:

- About the wine: Choose a quality red wine that you enjoy drinking. The flavors of the wine will intensify during cooking, and a good wine will work wonders for your sauce.
- Variations: If you want to experiment, you can add chopped mushrooms or olives to the sauce for a Mediterranean touch or add a pinch of sugar for a sweet-sour contrast.
- Storage: This dish keeps excellently in the refrigerator and can be reheated the next day, with flavors becoming even more intense.

Nutritional information:

Each serving of meatballs in red wine sauce contains approximately 450 calories, being a good source of protein due to the meat, as well as vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. Carrots provide a significant amount of vitamin A and fiber, supporting a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use chicken instead of pork and beef?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe to your preferences, but chicken will have a different texture.

2. What type of pasta pairs best with this sauce?
Tagliatelle or fettuccine pasta absorb the sauce very well, providing a delicious combination.

3. Can I substitute the wine with something else?
If you want a non-alcoholic version, you can use tomato broth or a mix of balsamic vinegar with water.

4. What is the best way to store leftovers?
Keep the meatballs in sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can last up to 3 days.

Meatballs in red wine sauce are not just a meal, but a culinary experience that brings people and stories together. I wish you to enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen and to share this delicacy with your loved ones. Bon appétit!