BREAD BUNS

Breaded Meatballs – A Classic Delight Enriched with Flavor and Tradition

Breaded meatballs are a traditional dish loved by many generations. These treats are not just a culinary pleasure but also a symbol of warmth, family meals, and kindness. This versatile dish can be enjoyed as a main course or as an appetizer, and the breaded version gives them a crispy texture, perfect for pairing with delicious sauces or fresh sides. I invite you to discover step by step how to prepare the most savory breaded meatballs that will delight your family and friends.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 6 (approximately 35 meatballs)

Essential Ingredients

- 500 g beef (choose fresh meat with a moderate fat content for juiciness)
- 100 g onion (1 medium onion)
- 100 g bread (approximately 1 thick slice)
- 6-8 cloves of garlic (to taste)
- 1 egg (for binding the mixture)
- Dill (to taste, fresh or dried)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Oil for frying (choose an oil with a high smoke point, such as sunflower oil)

For breading:
- 8 tablespoons of flour
- 2 eggs (beaten well with a little salt and pepper)
- 12 tablespoons of breadcrumbs (you can use plain or flavored breadcrumbs for extra taste)

Steps for Preparing Breaded Meatballs

1. Preparing the ingredients:
- Start by finely chopping the onion and frying it in a pan with a little oil until it becomes translucent. This will add a sweet taste and a pleasant aroma to the meatballs. Let the onion cool before adding it to the mixture.
- Soak the bread in water for a few seconds, then squeeze it well. This will help achieve a soft and juicy texture for the meatballs.

2. Grinding the ingredients:
- Use a meat grinder to process the beef, fried onion, and bread. It is important to run them through the grinder twice to achieve a fine and well-homogenized mixture.

3. Preparing the mixture:
- In a large bowl, mix the obtained mixture well with the beaten egg, crushed garlic, dill, salt, and pepper. Make sure all ingredients are well integrated. You can taste the mixture to adjust the spices according to your preferences.

4. Forming the meatballs:
- Use wet hands to form medium-sized meatballs (about the size of a walnut). You can make the meatballs round or slightly flat, depending on your preference.

5. Breading the meatballs:
- Prepare a station for breading: put flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs in a third bowl. Dip each meatball first in flour, then in the beaten eggs, and finally in breadcrumbs, ensuring they are evenly coated.

6. Frying the meatballs:
- In a deep pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs, 4-5 at a time, and fry them for 3-4 minutes on each side or until they become golden and crispy. Ensure the oil is hot enough to avoid excessive oil absorption.

7. Serving:
- Remove the meatballs onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Serve them hot, alongside delicious sauces (yogurt sauce, tomato sauce, or a spicy sauce) and fresh sides like green salad or mashed potatoes.

Practical Tips

- Choosing the meat: Use fresh beef for the best results. You can combine beef with pork for a different texture and taste.
- Spices: Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices! You can add paprika, cumin, or even a pinch of chili pepper for a spicy flavor.
- Oven-baked meatballs: If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the meatballs in the oven at 180°C for 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through.

Delicious Variations

- Cheese meatballs: Add feta cheese or grated cheese to the mixture for extra flavor.
- Vegetarian meatballs: Replace the meat with a combination of ground vegetables and ground nuts.
- Spicy meatballs: Add a few drops of Tabasco or chili sauce to the mixture for a more intense flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

Breaded meatballs are an excellent source of protein, B vitamins, and minerals, thanks to the beef and fresh ingredients. Additionally, garlic has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to a stronger immune system.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I prepare the meatballs a day in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs a day in advance, keep them in the fridge, and fry them before serving.

2. How can I prevent the meatballs from being dry?
Make sure not to over-fry them and use meat with a moderate fat content. Garlic and fried onion add moisture and flavor.

3. What sauces pair best with breaded meatballs?
Yogurt sauce with dill, tomato sauce, or garlic sauce are excellent choices to accompany the meatballs.

These breaded meatballs are more than just a simple dish – they are a celebration of flavors that brings family and friends together. So put on your chef's apron and get ready to enjoy this delicious recipe! Bon appétit!