BBQ Meatballs

BBQ Meatballs Recipe - Rolled Oats, Non-Fat Dry Milk, Worcestershire Sauce

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

BBQ Meatballs are a classic and versatile dish that has found its way into the hearts and kitchens of many around the globe. This recipe combines the savory richness of ground beef with a tangy and sweet barbecue sauce, creating a delightful balance of flavors. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or as a comforting meal, these meatballs are sure to be a hit.

History

The concept of meatballs has been around for centuries, with each culture having its own variation. The BBQ Meatball, as we know it today, is a fusion of traditional meatball recipes with the American love for barbecue flavors. This particular recipe has evolved over time, incorporating ingredients like Worcestershire sauce and dried onion flakes to enhance its taste and appeal.

Ingredients

Meatballs

2 lb (907 g) ground beef
0.75 cup rolled oats
0.33 cup instant non-fat dry milk + 1 cup water (or 1 cup non-fat milk)
3 tsp dried onion flakes
1 tsp salt
0.5 tsp black pepper
all-purpose flour

Sauce

2 tbsp sugar
2 tbsp worcestershire sauce
1 cup ketchup
0.5 cup water
3 tbsp vinegar
6 tbsp dried onion flakes

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Combine the ingredients and shape them into small balls.
Roll the balls in flour and brown them in a skillet.
Transfer the meatballs to a baking dish.
Combine all the ingredients for the sauce and pour it over the meatballs.
Bake the meatballs at 350°F (177°C) for 30 to 40 minutes.

Variations

For a spicier version, add chili flakes to the sauce.
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For juicier meatballs, mix the ground beef gently and avoid overworking the meat.

- Browning the meatballs before baking adds depth to their flavor and texture.

- Letting the meatballs rest in the sauce after baking allows them to absorb more flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the BBQ Meatballs over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, with a side of coleslaw or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the meatballs in a skillet before baking is crucial for texture and flavor. Baking them in the sauce allows them to stay moist and absorb the flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use breadcrumbs instead of rolled oats for a different texture.

- Almond milk can replace non-fat milk for a dairy-free version.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare and shape the meatballs, then freeze them. Thaw and cook with the sauce when ready to serve for a quick and easy meal.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with toothpicks for an appetizing appetizer at parties.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair with a light red wine like Pinot Noir or a crisp beer such as a lager to complement the tangy sweetness of the BBQ sauce.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until thoroughly warmed.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of BBQ Meatballs contains approximately 350 calories. This can vary based on the size of the meatballs and the exact ingredients used.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of BBQ Meatballs contains approximately 22 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources include the rolled oats, sugar, and ketchup used in the recipe.

Fats

This recipe contains about 15 grams of fat per serving, most of which comes from the ground beef. Using leaner cuts of beef can reduce the fat content.

Proteins

BBQ Meatballs are a good source of protein, providing about 25 grams per serving. The protein primarily comes from the ground beef.

Vitamins and minerals

These meatballs offer various vitamins and minerals, including iron from the beef, calcium from the milk, and potassium from the ketchup.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include gluten (from the rolled oats and all-purpose flour) and dairy (from the non-fat milk). Individuals with allergies should adjust the recipe accordingly.

Summary

Overall, BBQ Meatballs provide a balanced mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. They can be part of a nutritious meal when served with sides of vegetables or salads.

Summary

BBQ Meatballs are a delightful dish that combines the comforting texture of meatballs with the bold flavors of barbecue. This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing for various substitutions and variations to suit different dietary needs and preferences. Whether served at a party or as part of a family dinner, these meatballs are sure to be enjoyed by all.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for BBQ Meatballs. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl visiting my aunt in the countryside. My aunt was known for her delicious home-cooked meals, and that day she was preparing a special dish for a family gathering - BBQ Meatballs.

I watched in awe as my aunt expertly mixed together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings to form perfectly round meatballs. She then placed them in a baking dish and covered them with a tangy BBQ sauce made from ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and spices. The smell that wafted through the kitchen was absolutely mouth-watering.

As the meatballs baked in the oven, my aunt shared with me the story behind this recipe. She told me that she had learned it from her own grandmother, who had learned it from a dear friend many years ago. It was a recipe that had been passed down through generations, each cook adding their own twist to make it their own.

I was fascinated by the idea of a recipe with such a rich history, and I knew that I had to learn how to make it myself. So, as soon as I returned home, I set out to recreate my aunt's BBQ Meatballs. I gathered all the ingredients and followed her instructions to the letter, carefully shaping the meatballs and smothering them in the delicious BBQ sauce.

When I pulled the meatballs out of the oven and took my first bite, I knew that I had succeeded. The flavors were just as I remembered them - sweet, tangy, and perfectly balanced. I couldn't wait to share this recipe with my own family and friends.

Over the years, I have continued to make my aunt's BBQ Meatballs for every special occasion and gathering. Each time, I am reminded of that first time I saw the recipe being made and how it sparked my love for cooking. I have since added my own touches to the recipe, experimenting with different seasonings and spices to make it truly my own.

I have passed down this recipe to my own children and grandchildren, just as my aunt passed it down to me. It has become a family tradition, a dish that brings us together and reminds us of the strong bonds that tie us to our past.

So whenever I make a batch of BBQ Meatballs, I am not just cooking a meal - I am carrying on a legacy, honoring the cooks who came before me and preserving a piece of our family history. And with each bite, I am reminded of the love and care that went into creating this recipe, a true labor of love that will continue to be cherished for generations to come.