Meatballs in sauce

Delicious meatballs in tomato sauce

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Who doesn't love the enticing aroma of fried meatballs enveloped in flavorful tomato sauce? This simple and quick recipe will take you on a culinary journey full of flavor, perfect for a family dinner or to impress friends. Meatballs are not just a delicious dish but also an important part of culinary traditions around the world. Each culture has its own version, but the basic ingredients remain constant – meat, spices, and a savory sauce.

Ingredients:

- 500 g ground turkey (or another type of meat, according to preference)
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill (or 1 tablespoon dried)
- 4 cloves of garlic (finely chopped)
- 2 medium potatoes (optional, for added consistency)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill

Preparation of meatballs:

1. Preparing the meat mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey with the eggs, salt, pepper, fresh dill, and chopped garlic. This combination will give the meatballs a wonderful flavor. If you want a fluffier texture, add grated potatoes (prepare them beforehand by washing and peeling).

2. Forming the meatballs: Use your hands to form small meatballs (about 3-4 cm in diameter). Make sure they are uniform in size to cook evenly. You can let the meatballs rest for 10 minutes to blend the flavors.

3. Frying the meatballs: In a deep skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and fry them on all sides until golden and crispy. This should take about 5-6 minutes. Then, remove them and let them rest on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

Preparation of sauce:

1. Sautéing the onion: In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the chopped garlic and sauté for another minute, being careful not to burn it.

2. Forming the sauce: Add the flour and mix well to form a roux. Pour in a little water (about 100 ml) and stir continuously to avoid lumps. Once the sauce becomes smooth, add the tomato paste, bay leaf, and thyme (if using). Let the sauce simmer over low heat for 5 minutes to thicken and blend the flavors.

3. Combining the meatballs with the sauce: Carefully add the fried meatballs to the prepared sauce. Cover the skillet and let them simmer for about 10 minutes so that the flavors meld together.

Serving:

The meatballs in tomato sauce are delicious served warm, alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or fresh bread. You can sprinkle a little fresh dill on top for a fresh and appealing look. Additionally, a glass of white wine or fresh lemonade can perfectly complement this dish.

Practical tips:

- If you want to reduce calories, you can replace the turkey with ground chicken or a vegetarian option like lentils or chickpeas.
- Experiment with various spices, such as oregano or basil, to give a personal touch to the sauce.
- The meatballs can be frozen before frying. Make sure to place them in an airtight container and separate them with plastic wrap to prevent sticking.

Nutritional information:

This meatball recipe in tomato sauce contains approximately 350 calories per serving, providing a good source of protein from the turkey and fiber from the tomatoes and spices. Dill adds not only flavor but also digestive benefits.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, you can use beef, pork, or even vegetarian options.

2. How can I make the meatballs less greasy?
Try baking them in the oven instead of frying to reduce the amount of oil.

3. What side dish pairs best?
Mashed potatoes or a green salad are excellent options alongside the meatballs in sauce.

This meatball recipe in sauce is not only a delicious way to bring the family to the table but also an opportunity to explore the flavors and culinary traditions that unite us. So, indulge your appetite and savor every delicious bite!