Meatballs with a side of rice

Meatballs with Rice Garnish - a classic, simple, and flavorful recipe that will bring a touch of warmth to every meal. This recipe is perfect not only for quick lunches or dinners but also for impressing family or friends with a delicious meal. I invite you to discover how to prepare these juicy meatballs and aromatic rice, step by step.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients

For the meatballs:
- 500 g minced meat (pork, beef, or a combination)
- 1 egg
- 1 small onion
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1/2 bunch of fresh dill
- 4 tablespoons of breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons of cold water
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon of thyme

For the rice garnish:
- 1 cup of rice
- 2 eggs
- 1 carrot
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh dill, for decoration

A short story about the recipe

Meatballs are a traditional dish found in many culinary cultures. Whether served as a main course or as an appetizer, these meatballs are often associated with family memories, festive meals, or simply moments of comfort. Rice, on the other hand, is a staple food that perfectly complements meat dishes, providing texture and flavor. Together, meatballs and rice become an irresistible combination!

Step by step for preparing meatballs with rice garnish

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. This will ensure even baking of the meatballs, helping them become golden and crispy on the outside.

2. Prepare the tray: Grease a baking tray with a little olive oil so that the meatballs do not stick. An alternative is to use parchment paper for easier cleaning.

3. Boil the rice: In a pot, add slightly salted water and bring it to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the rice and let it cook according to the package instructions, usually between 10-15 minutes. After the rice is cooked, drain it well and let it cool.

4. Prepare the meatball mixture: In a large bowl, combine the minced meat with the egg, finely chopped onion and garlic, fresh dill, breadcrumbs, cold water, salt, pepper, and thyme. Use a fork or your hands to mix everything well. It is important not to overwork the mixture, so the meatballs remain fluffy.

5. Prepare the rice garnish: In a pan, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and add the grated carrot. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened. Add the cooked rice and mix well. Keep it on low heat, stirring occasionally.

6. Add the eggs: Make a small well in the rice in the pan and crack the two eggs, stirring quickly to incorporate them into the rice. Continue to cook for another 3-4 minutes until the eggs are cooked and the mixture becomes homogeneous. Add salt, pepper, and fresh dill to taste.

7. Form the meatballs: With wet hands, shape the meatballs slightly larger than usual and place them on the prepared tray. This will help maintain their shape and prevent sticking.

8. Bake the meatballs: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes or until the meatballs are golden and fully cooked.

9. Serve: Once the meatballs are ready, carefully remove them from the oven and place them on a platter alongside the rice garnish. Decorate with chopped fresh dill for an extra touch of flavor and color.

Useful tips for a perfect result

- Minced meat: Choose quality, fresh meat. A combination of pork and beef can add extra flavor. Check with the butcher for the best options.
- Dill: If you don't have fresh dill, you can use dried dill, but the taste will be milder.
- Vegetarian option: For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with a mix of vegetables and quinoa or mashed chickpeas.
- Alternative garnishes: These meatballs can also be served with mashed potatoes or fresh salads to vary the meals.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I freeze the meatballs? Yes, the meatballs can be frozen before baking. Place them on a tray and freeze, then transfer them to an airtight container. To cook, bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

2. What other spices can I use? Besides thyme, you can add oregano, parsley, or even a pinch of chili for a spicier taste.

3. How to make a sauce garnish? A yogurt sauce with garlic and dill or a simple tomato sauce would go wonderfully with these meatballs.

Calories and nutritional benefits

A serving of meatballs with rice garnish (approximately 250 g) contains about 450-500 calories, depending on the type of meat used. This dish provides a good source of protein, complex carbohydrates, and vitamins from vegetables, making it a nutritious option for a balanced meal.

Thank you for choosing to try this recipe! Happy cooking and don’t forget to savor every bite!