Meatballs with mayonnaise

Meatballs with Mayonnaise - A Delicious and Comforting Recipe

Meatballs with mayonnaise are a dish that evokes pleasant childhood memories and moments spent with family. This savory appetizer, easy to prepare, combines the flavor of meat with the freshness of vegetables and the creaminess of mayonnaise, offering a contrast of textures and flavors. Moreover, it is a versatile recipe that can be adapted according to personal preferences. So, let’s get to work!

Preparation Time
- Prep time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4-6 servings

Ingredients
- 300g minced pork
- 300g minced beef
- 1 large carrot
- 1 medium potato
- 1 slice of bread (white or whole grain)
- 4 cloves of garlic
- A bunch of parsley (about 30g)
- A bunch of dill (about 30g)
- 1 egg
- Spices (salt, pepper, sweet paprika, to taste)
- Breadcrumbs (optional, for a firmer texture)
- 1 medium onion
- 200g mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons of vinegar

The Story Behind the Recipe
Meatballs are a traditional dish found in many culinary cultures, each having its own version. From Swedish meatballs with cranberry sauce to Italian ones with tomato sauce, the ingredients and preparation methods can vary significantly. In our recipe, the combination of pork and beef enriches the flavor of the meatballs, while the vegetables add a touch of freshness. Mayonnaise, a staple ingredient in many dishes, gives them an elegant appearance and unique creaminess.

Preparing the Meatballs
1. Prepare the ingredients: Peel the carrot and potato, then grate them finely. This will help with better integration of the vegetables into the meat mixture.

2. Soak the bread: Tear the slice of bread into small pieces and soak it in milk or water for a few minutes. Then, squeeze out the excess liquid. The bread will help bind the ingredients and add moisture to the meatballs.

3. Mix the composition: In a large bowl, combine the minced pork and beef. Add the grated carrot and potato, the soaked bread, crushed garlic, finely chopped parsley and dill, the egg, and the spices (salt, pepper, and sweet paprika, if desired). Use your hands to thoroughly mix the mixture. If the composition is too soft, add some breadcrumbs to achieve a firmer consistency.

4. Form the meatballs: With wet hands, shape the meatballs into round shapes of your desired size. This will help prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands.

5. Fry the meatballs: In a deep pan, heat a generous amount of oil. When the oil is hot, add the meatballs, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them until golden and crispy on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove them onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

Preparing the Onion Mayonnaise
1. Macerate the onion: Slice the onion thinly. Place it in a bowl and add the vinegar and 2-3 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for 30 minutes. This will reduce the bitterness of the onion and add a note of freshness.

2. Mix with mayonnaise: After the onion has macerated, squeeze out the excess liquid and add the onion to the mayonnaise. Mix well so that the onion is evenly distributed.

Serving
1. Assemble the dish: On a large platter, spread a generous layer of onion mayonnaise. Place the fried meatballs on top and, if desired, sprinkle some fresh dill for a more attractive appearance.

Helpful Tips
- Vegetarian version: You can replace the meat with a mix of vegetables and grains (e.g., quinoa or rice) to create delicious vegetarian meatballs.
- Extra flavor: Add spices like cumin or coriander for a more intense aroma.
- Freezing: Unfried meatballs can be frozen. Make sure to package them well to prevent freezer burn.
- Pairing with other dishes: These meatballs go perfectly with a fresh green salad or mashed potatoes. You can also serve them with a yogurt and garlic sauce for an even more refreshing taste.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use chicken meat? Yes, minced chicken can be a lighter and equally tasty alternative.
- What other sauces go well with meatballs? A tomato sauce or a spicy sauce can add extra flavor.
- Can meatballs be baked? Absolutely! Preheat the oven to 200°C and bake the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through.

Nutritional Benefits
Meatballs with mayonnaise are a good source of proteins and vitamins due to the ingredients used. The carrot and potato add fiber and essential nutrients, while mayonnaise, although high in calories, provides healthy fats. It is important to consume in moderation, but when you enjoy them, you know you are experiencing a taste full of tradition.

In conclusion
Meatballs with mayonnaise are more than just an appetizer; they bring together people and stories. Whether you serve them at a festive meal or as a quick snack, these meatballs will surely win everyone’s heart. Try this recipe at home and enjoy the delicious flavors and textures it offers!