Marinated turkey and beef meatballs

Turkey and Beef Meatballs in Marinade – A Delicious and Comforting Recipe

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

A perfectly cooked meatball is not just food; it is a symbol of comfort and warmth, reminding us of the lavish meals of our childhood. This recipe for turkey and beef meatballs in marinade is not only tasty but also easy to make, with ingredients readily available. Whether you serve them with polenta or mashed potatoes, these meatballs with tomato sauce are an excellent choice for a family dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients
- 1 large white onion
- 1 carrot
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 1 can of peeled tomatoes (approximately 400g)
- 1 tablespoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon vegetable seasoning
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh or dried basil
- 3 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 tablespoon flour
- ½ cup red wine
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- 7-8 meatballs (made from turkey and beef)

Step by Step: Your Guide to Perfect Meatballs
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Start by finely chopping the onion and grating the carrot. Crush the garlic and then finely chop it to release its flavors.
- Prepare your favorite meatballs using turkey and beef. You can use a simple recipe that may include ground meat, egg, breadcrumbs, and spices.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This step is essential, as well-cooked vegetables add depth of flavor to your sauce.

Step 3: Adding the Wine
- Sprinkle the sweet paprika over the sautéed vegetables, mixing well, and then deglaze with ½ cup of red wine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the alcohol to evaporate and the flavors to intensify. The red wine not only enhances the taste but also adds a touch of elegance to the dish.

Step 4: Preparing the Tomato Sauce
- In a blender, puree the peeled tomatoes along with a tablespoon of olive oil and basil. Pour this mixture over the sautéed vegetables in the skillet and let it simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes. The sauce should thicken and reveal all its flavors.

Step 5: Cooking the Meatballs
- Add the meatballs to the tomato sauce and let them simmer on low heat for 30 minutes. If you notice the sauce becoming too thick, add water to achieve the desired consistency. Season with vegetable seasoning and pepper to taste. These will enhance the flavors and add extra savoriness to the dish.

Step 6: Creaming the Sour Cream
- In a bowl, combine a tablespoon of flour with the sour cream and dilute the mixture with water. Take a ladle of the liquid from the pot and add it to the bowl, mixing well to avoid lumps. Pour this mixture into the pot with the meatballs and let it simmer on low heat for another 10 minutes. This step will make the sauce creamy and delicious.

Step 7: Finishing Touches
- Finally, add a bit of chopped fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness and flavor. Your meatballs are now ready to be served!

Chef’s Tip
To achieve juicy meatballs, choose high-quality ground meat and don’t hesitate to add fresh herbs to the meatball mixture. You can experiment with various spices to customize the flavor, such as oregano, thyme, or marjoram.

Delicious Pairings
These marinated meatballs pair perfectly with creamy polenta or slightly buttery mashed potatoes. Additionally, a simple green salad with a vinaigrette will balance the rich texture of the dish. Don’t forget a glass of red wine to complete the culinary experience!

Nutritional Benefits
Turkey meat is an excellent source of lean protein, while carrots and tomatoes provide important vitamins and antioxidants. This recipe is not only tasty but also nutritious, giving you the energy you need for an active day.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, chicken is an excellent alternative and will provide a similar taste.

2. Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes, the meatballs can be successfully frozen before or after cooking. Just make sure to place them in airtight containers.

3. What other sauces can I use?
You can experiment with yogurt sauces, chili sauce, or even cheese sauce for a more decadent version.

A Personal Note
I fondly remember the days when my mom would cook these meatballs every Sunday. The aroma of sautéed vegetables and red wine would fill the house, and we would all gather around the table, laughing and sharing stories. This recipe is not just a simple meal; it’s a way to create unforgettable memories with loved ones. I invite you to enjoy every moment of cooking and share your creations with those dear to you. Bon appétit!