Meatballs with peppers and thyme

Meatballs with Peppers and Thyme - A Delicious Reinterpretation of Classic Meatballs

Who hasn't enjoyed fluffy and aromatic meatballs at least once? In this recipe, we will add a touch of originality and flavor by combining chicken and pork with fresh pepper and thyme aromas. Meatballs with peppers and thyme are not only a tasty choice but also a versatile option, suitable for both appetizers and main courses.

Total preparation time: 50 minutes
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 300 g ground chicken
- 300 g ground pork
- 1 teaspoon chopped garlic (about 2-3 cloves)
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme or ½ teaspoon dried
- 1 medium red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 tablespoons bell pepper paste (or roasted peppers)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying

Recipe history:
Meatballs have a long history, being a popular dish in many cultures around the world. From beef meatballs, which were consumed in ancient times, to modern variations with various ingredients, they have constantly evolved. In this recipe, we chose to bring a bit of freshness and a distinct taste by adding bell pepper and thyme, two ingredients that complement each other perfectly.

Step by step:
1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by chopping the red onion and garlic. Make sure the thyme is fresh, as its aroma will enhance the taste of the meatballs. If using dried thyme, reduce the amount as it is more concentrated.

2. Mixing the composition: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken and pork. Add the onion, garlic, thyme, breadcrumbs, milk, and bell pepper paste. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. Use your hands (well-oiled to prevent sticking) to mix the ingredients well until you achieve a homogeneous mixture.

3. Forming the meatballs: With oiled hands, take a portion of the mixture and form meatballs of the desired size. Make sure they are uniform to cook evenly.

4. Frying the meatballs: In a deep pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Ensure the oil is hot enough but not too hot to avoid burning the outside and keeping the inside juicy. Add the meatballs, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them on each side for about 5-7 minutes or until they become golden and crispy.

5. Removing the meatballs: Once fried, remove the meatballs onto a paper towel to drain excess oil.

6. Serving: These meatballs with peppers and thyme are delicious served warm, either as an appetizer alongside a fresh salad or grilled vegetables. You can also serve them as a main dish with a side of mashed potatoes or baked potatoes. A serving idea would be to place them on a platter alongside a yogurt sauce with dill or a spicy tomato sauce.

Practical tips:
- If you want to make the meatballs less greasy, you can bake them in the oven at 180°C for 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through.
- Instead of bell pepper paste, you can use finely chopped fresh peppers or even hot peppers for a spicier taste.
- You can experiment with spices by adding basil, oregano, or even a pinch of cumin for a different flavor.

Nutritional values:
Each serving of meatballs contains approximately 350 calories, being a good source of protein from the chicken and pork. Thyme has antioxidant properties, and bell peppers provide vitamins A and C, contributing to a healthy immune system.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I freeze the meatballs? Yes, you can freeze the meatballs before frying them. Make sure to place them on a tray in the freezer until solid, then you can transfer them to freezer bags.
2. What side dishes go best with meatballs? Meatballs go great with mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, rice, or even various salads.
3. How can I make the meatballs less greasy? You can bake them instead of frying, or use lean chicken meat and reduce the amount of oil used.

These meatballs with peppers and thyme are not just a delicious variant of the classic dish but an excellent way to add extra flavor and texture to your meals. Experiment with the ingredients and find the perfect combination to delight the taste buds of your family and friends! Enjoy!