Turkish traditional meatballs with potatoes

Potato meatballs - a traditional recipe full of flavor and history

When it comes to dishes that remind us of family meals, potato meatballs are definitely a favorite. These delicious meatballs, served on a bed of potatoes, are not only nutritious but also full of nostalgia. The recipe I share with you today is a special one, coming from a skilled chef, Barbonelli. So, let’s get to work and turn simple ingredients into a memorable feast!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

- 700 g minced meat (a mix of pork and beef)
- 500 g potatoes (preferably starchy potatoes)
- 500 g tomatoes (fresh, ripe)
- 2-3 bell peppers (a bit spicier, if you prefer)
- A piece of bread (about 100 g)
- A bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 large onion
- 2 eggs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Thinly sliced cheese (optional)
- Smoked bacon (optional)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into thick slices of about 1.5 cm. These slices will become the delicious base for our meatballs. Also, peel the onion and cut it into quarters, then chop it finely. Cut the piece of bread into small cubes.

2. The meatball mixture: In a large bowl, combine the minced meat with the finely chopped parsley, chopped onion, bread cubes, eggs, salt, pepper, and, if desired, a bit of baking soda to make them fluffier. Mix well with your hands or a spatula until the ingredients are well incorporated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit in the fridge for 30 minutes, so the flavors can meld.

3. Preparing the potatoes: While the meat mixture rests, prepare the potatoes. Place the potato slices in a baking dish lined with parchment paper, drizzle with a bit of oil, and season with salt. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and place the dish inside for 30 minutes, until the potatoes become golden and slightly crispy.

4. Forming the meatballs: After the meat mixture has rested in the fridge, take it out and form medium-sized meatballs. These will be placed on top of the baked potatoes. If desired, you can add a slice of tomato and a piece of pepper between the meatballs and potatoes for extra flavor.

5. Final cooking: Once the potatoes are ready, remove the dish from the oven and place the meatballs on top of the potatoes. If you like, you can add the slices of bacon and thinly sliced cheese on top. Put the dish back in the oven and let it bake for about 30-40 minutes, until the meatballs are well cooked and browned.

6. Serving: Once everything is ready, take the dish out of the oven and let it cool slightly. Before serving, don’t forget to remove the toothpicks if you used them, and add a garlic mustard sauce for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy your meal!

Useful tips:

- Meat: Choose quality minced meat - the mix of pork and beef provides an ideal texture and taste. You can also experiment with chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
- Potatoes: Starchy potatoes are the most suitable for this recipe, as they bake better and have a fluffier texture.
- Serving variation: If you want to impress your guests, try adding crumbled feta cheese or chopped black olives on top of the meatballs before baking them.
- Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other vegetables? Of course! Carrots or zucchini can be added to the meat mixture for extra flavor and nutrients.
- How can I store leftovers? The meatballs can be kept in the fridge for 2-3 days in airtight containers. They can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

Nutritional benefits:

This dish is rich in protein due to the meat, while the potatoes provide healthy carbohydrates and fiber. Tomatoes and peppers are full of essential vitamins and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet.

Potato meatballs are not just a delicious dish but also an excellent way to gather the family around the table. So, don’t hesitate to try this recipe and let your imagination soar! Enjoy your meal!