Meatballs in tomato sauce

Meatballs in Tomato Sauce - a classic and comforting recipe

Who hasn't enjoyed a delicious serving of meatballs in tomato sauce? This dish has been loved for generations and offers a perfect combination of flavors and textures. Whether it's a quick family dinner or a festive meal, meatballs in tomato sauce are always a winning choice. Over time, many cultures have contributed to this recipe, adapting ingredients and techniques, but the essence remains the same: a tasty dish that brings people together.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 300 g of lean minced pork (or mixed)
- 400 g of canned diced tomatoes
- 1 egg
- 1 cup of broth (chicken or vegetable)
- 1 tablespoon of grated Parmesan
- 1 tablespoon of breadcrumbs
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil (or fresh if available)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 4-5 tablespoons of olive oil

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the meatballs: In a large bowl, add the minced meat, egg, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, parsley, salt, and pepper. Use a spatula or your hands to mix all the ingredients until well combined. Don't rush! This is the secret to juicy meatballs.

2. Shaping the meatballs: With wet hands, form small meatballs about 3-4 cm in diameter. Make sure to shape them evenly for even cooking.

3. Cooking the meatballs: In a deep pan, heat 4-5 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the meatballs, making sure not to overcrowd them. Fry for 5-7 minutes, gently turning them until golden brown on all sides.

4. Adding the onion: Once the meatballs are browned, add the chopped onion to the pan. Sauté together with the meatballs for about 1 minute, until the onion becomes translucent.

5. Preparing the sauce: Pour the cup of broth into the pan and let it simmer for 10 minutes over medium heat. This step allows the flavors to combine and the broth to reduce by half, enriching the sauce.

6. Adding the tomatoes: Add the diced tomatoes to the pan and continue to simmer for another 5 minutes. The sauce should become thick and flavorful, and the meatballs will soak up the sauce's goodness.

7. Seasoning: Finally, add the garlic powder, remaining parsley, dried basil, salt, and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for another minute to allow the flavors to blend perfectly.

8. Serving: Meatballs in tomato sauce can be served alongside mashed potatoes, boiled potatoes, rice, or even on their own to enjoy every bite. A side of fresh green salad will perfectly complement the meal.

Useful tips:

- Choosing the meat: You can use minced pork, beef, or a combination of both. Pork, having a higher fat content, gives the meatballs a juicier texture.
- Varying the flavors: Instead of basil, you can try oregano or marjoram, depending on your preferences.
- Storage: If you have leftover meatballs, you can keep them in the fridge for 2-3 days or freeze them for later enjoyment.

Nutritional benefits:

Minced meatballs are an excellent source of protein, and tomato sauce provides a boost of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Parsley adds important vitamins and minerals, and olive oil is known for its cardiovascular benefits. This dish is not only delicious but also healthy, giving you the energy you need!

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use minced chicken? Yes, chicken is an excellent alternative, offering a leaner dish.
- How can I make the meatballs less fatty? You can replace some of the minced meat with grated vegetables, such as zucchini or carrot.
- Can I make the meatballs without egg? Yes, you can use a mixture of flaxseeds and water as a binder, or even a potato puree.

Ideal pairings:

These meatballs pair perfectly with a dry red wine or a light beer. Additionally, a raw vegetable salad will add a pleasant contrast to your meal.

Don't forget to share this recipe with your loved ones, to bring joy and good taste into every home! Enjoy your meal!