Appetizer Meat Balls

Introduction

History

The concept of meatballs has been around for centuries, with each culture adding its own twist to the basic idea of ground meat rolled into balls. The addition of ingredients like oats and water chestnuts, along with a sweet and sour sauce, gives this particular recipe a modern and international flair, blending elements from Western and Asian cuisines. This recipe has evolved over time, becoming a favorite for its ease of preparation and delicious taste.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your meatballs are tender and flavorful, mix the ingredients gently to avoid overworking the meat. Browning the meatballs in margarine adds a rich flavor, but be sure to drain them well to avoid excess fat. When making the sweet and sour sauce, ensure the cornstarch is fully dissolved in water to prevent lumps. Simmering the meatballs in the sauce allows them to absorb the flavors fully, making them even more delicious.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these meatballs as an appetizer with toothpicks for easy eating, or as a main course over a bed of steamed rice or noodles to soak up the delicious sweet and sour sauce. A side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad complements the flavors well.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the meatballs before simmering them in the sauce is crucial for developing depth of flavor. For an even cook, consider baking the meatballs in the oven before adding them to the sauce. This method can also reduce the amount of fat.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're out of water chestnuts, chopped bell peppers or celery can provide a similar crunch. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free oats and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free. Almond milk can replace cow's milk for a dairy-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

These meatballs can be made in advance and frozen, either before or after cooking. If freezing after cooking, let them cool completely before freezing them in the sauce. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove.

Presentation Ideas

For an elegant presentation, serve the meatballs on a platter garnished with green onions or sesame seeds. A drizzle of the sauce over the top adds color and flavor. Serve with small forks or toothpicks for easy eating.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp white wine or a fruity red pairs well with the sweet and sour flavors of this dish. For non-alcoholic options, consider sparkling water with a squeeze of lime or a light iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water if the sauce has thickened too much.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Appetizer Meat Balls contains approximately 250-300 calories, making it a relatively moderate-calorie option for an appetizer or main dish.

Carbohydrates

The primary source of carbohydrates in this recipe comes from the sugar in the sweet and sour sauce and the rolled oats in the meatballs. Each serving contains approximately 15-20 grams of carbohydrates, making it a moderate source of carbs.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come from the ground beef, pork, and margarine used for browning. The total fat content per serving is around 10-15 grams, with a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats. Choosing leaner cuts of meat and using less margarine can help reduce the fat content.

Proteins

This recipe is a good source of protein, thanks to the ground beef and pork. Each serving provides approximately 15-20 grams of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.

Vitamins and minerals

The meatballs and sauce provide a range of vitamins and minerals, including iron from the meat, vitamin C from the vinegar, and various B vitamins from the oats. Water chestnuts add a small amount of potassium and fiber.

Alergens

This recipe contains potential allergens such as gluten (in the oats) and dairy (if using milk). It's also important to note the presence of soy in Worcestershire sauce for those with soy allergies.

Summary

Overall, the Appetizer Meat Balls are a balanced dish, providing proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, along with a variety of vitamins and minerals. It's a flavorful option that can fit into a balanced diet with moderation.

Summary

The Appetizer Meat Balls recipe is a delightful and versatile dish that combines savory meatballs with a tangy sweet and sour sauce. With options for customization and make-ahead convenience, it's a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, these meatballs are sure to be a hit.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Appetizer Meat Balls. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my mother. We were hosting a dinner party for some close family friends, and my mother had decided to make these delicious meatballs as an appetizer.

I watched in awe as my mother effortlessly combined ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and a variety of herbs and spices. She then shaped the mixture into small balls and placed them on a baking sheet. As they baked in the oven, the aroma that filled the kitchen was absolutely tantalizing.

When the meatballs were done, my mother served them on a platter with a tangy marinara sauce for dipping. The first bite was a revelation - the meatballs were tender, flavorful, and utterly irresistible. I knew then and there that I had to learn how to make them myself.

Over the years, I have made these meatballs countless times, each time honing my skills and perfecting the recipe. I have added my own touches here and there, experimenting with different seasonings and garnishes. But the core of the recipe remains the same, a testament to the enduring power of tradition in the kitchen.

I learned the recipe for Appetizer Meat Balls from my mother, who in turn had learned it from her own mother. It has been passed down through the generations, a cherished family secret that brings joy and comfort to all who taste it. And now, I am delighted to share it with you.

To make these delectable meatballs, you will need the following ingredients:

- 1 pound ground beef

- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 teaspoon dried oregano

- 1 teaspoon dried basil

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

- 1 egg, beaten

- Marinara sauce, for serving

Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Next, add the beaten egg to the mixture and continue to mix until everything is well combined. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat.

Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve the meatballs on a platter with the warm marinara sauce for dipping. You can also garnish them with fresh basil or parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

I hope you enjoy making and eating these Appetizer Meat Balls as much as I do. May they bring you as much joy and satisfaction as they have brought me and my family over the years. Happy cooking!

Categories

| Cathy's Recipes | Ground Beef Recipes | Ground Pork Recipes | Meat Appetizer Recipes | Meatball Recipes | Rolled Oats Recipes | Water Chestnut Recipes |

Recipes with the same ingredients