Meatballs with sauce

Delicious Meatballs with Sauce Recipe

Meatballs with sauce are a classic dish, loved by many generations, that combines the flavor of meat with the aromas of spices, creating a comforting and flavorful meal. These little delights are perfect for both lunch and dinner and can be served alongside mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. In this recipe, I will share with you the necessary steps to achieve juicy meatballs, accompanied by a flavorful sauce that will turn them into a true culinary feast.

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

Necessary ingredients:
- 500 g ground beef
- 250 g ground pork
- 2 medium onions
- 4-5 garlic cloves
- 3 eggs
- 1 piece of bread (soaked in milk)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Flour (for coating the meatballs)
- 4-5 tablespoons sunflower oil or olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper
- 5 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 bay leaf
- A few sprigs of fresh dill, finely chopped

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by finely chopping the onions and garlic. The onion will be sautéed to develop its flavor, while the garlic will add an intense taste to the meatballs. Make sure you have all the ingredients at hand for an efficient cooking process.

2. Preparing the meatball mixture: In a pan, add 1-2 tablespoons of oil and sauté the chopped onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent. Then, add the crushed garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn it. Once slightly cooled, transfer the onion and garlic to a large bowl.

3. Mixing the ingredients: Add the ground beef and pork, beaten eggs, soaked bread, salt, pepper, and thyme to the bowl. Mix well with your hands (or a wooden spoon) until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated. This mixture is the base for your meatballs.

4. Forming the meatballs: Wet your hands with a little oil and shape small balls from the meat mixture, making sure they are not too large. Place them on a plate and lightly dust them with flour to help them maintain their shape during frying.

5. Frying the meatballs: In a large skillet, add 3-4 tablespoons of oil and heat it well. Fry the meatballs over medium heat until golden, about 3-4 minutes on each side. After frying, remove them onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

6. Preparing the sauce: In the same skillet, add the other chopped onion and the finely chopped red bell pepper. Sauté until they become soft, then add the diluted tomato paste in 250 ml of water. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

7. Finalizing the dish: Add the fried meatballs to the sauce, along with the bay leaf and chopped dill. Let everything simmer over moderate heat for about 10 minutes, so the meatballs absorb the flavors of the sauce.

8. Serving: The meatballs with sauce can be served warm, alongside a side of mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad. You can also add a dollop of sour cream on top for extra creaminess.

Practical tips:
- You can use chicken or turkey instead of beef and pork for a lighter version.
- Add spices like paprika or cayenne pepper for a spicier taste.
- If you like more flavorful meatballs, you can replace the bread with whole grain breadcrumbs or oats.

Nutritional benefits:
Meatballs are an excellent source of protein due to the meat, and the addition of vegetables (onion and bell pepper) brings vitamins and fiber. By using a moderate amount of oil and fresh ingredients, this dish can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen meat for the meatballs?
Yes, make sure to completely thaw the meat before using it.
- What are the best side dishes for meatballs?
Mashed potatoes, rice, or a green salad are excellent choices.
- Can I prepare the meatballs in advance?
Sure! The meatballs can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator, and the sauce can be made when you are ready to serve them.

In conclusion, meatballs with sauce are a simple yet extremely tasty recipe that can be customized to your preferences. I hope this recipe inspires you to try them and enjoy a dish that combines tradition with culinary comfort. Bon appétit!