Spicy meatballs "Red delight"

Spicy Meatballs "Red Delight"

Find your place in the kitchen and get ready to discover a delicious recipe for spicy meatballs that will delight your taste buds and bring a touch of joy to your meals. The "Red Delight" meatballs are a versatile dish, suitable for both family dinners and festive occasions. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total: 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

For the meatballs:
- 500 g minced meat (ideally pork for a richer flavor)
- 1-2 bunches of green onions (about 100 g)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley (about 50 g)
- 1 bunch of fresh dill (about 50 g)
- 4-5 cloves of garlic, crushed
- 1 egg (to bind the mixture)
- 100 g bread crumbs soaked in milk (or water)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Breadcrumbs for a crispy crust

For the tomato sauce:
- 1 large onion (about 150 g), chopped
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste (or puree)
- 2 fresh tomatoes, peeled and finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bunch of fresh lovage (about 30 g)
- 1 bay leaf
- 500 ml vegetable broth (or water)
- 4-5 cloves of garlic, sliced

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the meatballs
1. In a large bowl, combine the minced meat with the crushed garlic, chopped green onions, parsley, and dill. Mix the ingredients well to obtain a homogeneous mixture.
2. Add the soaked bread, egg, salt, and pepper. Here it is important to be careful with the salt quantity, as the flavor will intensify during frying.
3. Form golf ball-sized balls from the mixture. Place them on a plate and coat them with breadcrumbs for a crispy crust.

Step 2: Frying the meatballs
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Test the oil temperature by adding a small ball of the mixture; if it sizzles, the oil is ready.
2. Fry the meatballs on all sides until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
3. Once cooked, remove them to a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

Step 3: Preparing the tomato sauce
1. In the same skillet, add a little oil (if necessary) and sauté the chopped onion until translucent.
2. Add the tomato paste and chopped tomatoes, then pour in the vegetable broth. Add the bay leaf and let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Finally, add the sliced garlic and the fried meatballs. Let everything combine over heat for another 5 minutes.

Serving
Serve the meatballs hot, sprinkled with chopped fresh lovage. They pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad. You can accompany this dish with a bottle of red wine or a glass of fresh lemonade to balance the flavors.

Practical tips
- Choosing the meat: Using pork gives a richer taste, but you can experiment with turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Bread: Make sure the bread is well squeezed so it doesn't weigh down the mixture. Whole grain bread can add extra fiber.
- Sauce: If you prefer a spicier sauce, you can add chili flakes or fried garlic.

Nutritional benefits
These meatballs are rich in protein, providing an excellent source of nutrients due to the meat and fresh herbs. The tomatoes in the sauce offer an important contribution of vitamins, especially vitamin C, and antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I freeze the meatballs? Yes, you can freeze the meatballs before frying them. Make sure to let them cool completely before placing them in freezer bags.
- Can I add other ingredients? Sure! You can experiment by adding grated cheese, olives, or even grated vegetables to the meatball mixture.

Possible variations
- Vegetable meatballs: Add grated zucchini or carrot for a healthier version.
- Herb tomato sauce: You can add oregano or basil to the sauce for a Mediterranean flavor.

A personal note
I discovered this recipe while looking for something simple and tasty to prepare for a family dinner. Every time I make them, I remember the Sunday meals spent with loved ones. I encourage you to add a personal touch to your recipe, whether it's a special seasoning or a unique side dish. Enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen!

I hope this recipe for spicy meatballs "Red Delight" brings a smile to your face and quickly becomes a favorite in your home!