Fish meatballs

Fish Meatballs with Potatoes and Carrots: A Delicious and Easy-to-Prepare Delight

Total Time: 1 hour
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Number of Servings: 4

In the culinary world, fish meatballs represent a delicious and healthy choice, bringing together the flavors of the sea and fresh vegetables. These meatballs are not only a creative way to use fish but also a perfect option for a quick family meal or an elegant dinner. From the very first bite, you will be delighted by their silky texture and refined taste, and your friends will surely ask for the recipe!

Necessary Ingredients:

- 800 g mackerel fillet (you can use other fish, but mackerel provides a rich flavor)
- 3 medium potatoes
- 2 large carrots
- 3 slices of bread (preferably whole grain or homemade)
- 5 garlic cloves
- 1 bunch of fresh dill (for an intense flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Breadcrumbs (you can make from dried bread or buy, but homemade is tastier)

Step by Step to Perfection:

1. Preparing the Vegetables:
Start by peeling the potatoes and carrots. Cut them into cubes for quicker cooking. Place them in a pot with cold salted water and let them boil over medium heat. Whether you choose to use salted water or a splash of olive oil, be careful not to overcook them, just until a fork easily pierces them (about 15-20 minutes).

2. Cooling and Mashing the Vegetables:
After boiling, drain the vegetables well and let them cool. Once cooled, place them in a food processor. Blend until you achieve a homogeneous mixture, but not too fine; a bit of texture will add extra flavor to the meatballs.

3. Soaking the Bread:
In a small bowl, soak the 3 slices of bread in water. Wait a few minutes, then squeeze them well to remove excess water. The bread should be moist but not completely soaked.

4. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, add the vegetable mixture, fish (which can be cut into smaller pieces for easier mixing), the squeezed bread, chopped dill, and crushed garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Use a spatula or your hands to mix all the ingredients well until you have a uniform mixture.

5. Shaping the Meatballs:
Wet your hands (this prevents the meatballs from sticking) and shape the meatballs to your desired size. You can make them smaller for appetizers or larger for a main course. Roll each meatball in breadcrumbs for a crispy crust.

6. Cooking the Meatballs:
Place the meatballs on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Preheat the oven to 180°C (360°F) and bake the meatballs for about 30 minutes, or until they become golden and crispy. If you prefer a fried version, heat oil in a pan and fry the meatballs on both sides until browned.

7. Serving:
Fish meatballs are excellent served warm, alongside a fresh salad or a yogurt sauce with dill and garlic. You can also serve them with lemon for an extra touch of freshness!

Nutritional Benefits:
Fish meatballs, rich in protein and Omega-3 fatty acids, contribute to heart and brain health. The vegetables add essential fiber and vitamins, making this meal a healthy and balanced choice.

Tips and Variations:
If you want to add an exotic note, you can include spices like smoked paprika or cumin in the meatball mixture. You can also experiment with different types of fish or add vegetables like zucchini or onion to diversify the recipe!

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen fish? Yes, make sure to fully thaw and dry it well before use.
- How can I make the meatballs less fatty? Opt for baking instead of frying and use oil spray to give them a crispy crust.
- Can they be frozen? Yes, you can freeze the raw or baked meatballs. Make sure to wrap them well to prevent excessive freezing.

This recipe is not only simple but also a wonderful way to incorporate fish into your diet in a delicious and vibrant way. So enjoy the cooking process and the final result, which will delight not only your taste buds but also those of your loved ones!