Hawaiian Meatballs
Hawaiian Meatballs Recipe - An Exotic Taste from Hawaii
Introduction
Hawaiian Meatballs are a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of pineapple with savory meatballs in a tangy sauce. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a party, as it is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
History
Hawaiian Meatballs are a popular dish that originated in Hawaii, where the combination of sweet and savory flavors is a common theme in traditional Hawaiian cuisine. The use of pineapple in this recipe adds a tropical twist to the classic meatball dish.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb (680 g) lean ground beef
- 0.5 lb (227 g) ground chicken
- 1.5 cup fresh breadcrumbs, toasted
- 1 (8.25 oz (234 g)) can crushed pineapple, well drained
- 0.5 cup chopped onions
- 0.5 cup chopped celery
- 2 eggs
- 0.25 cup milk
- 0.25 cup reduced sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp minced fresh ginger
- salt and fresh ground pepper
Sauce
Garnish
- 2 tbsp thin sliced scallions
How to prepare
Meatballs
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Combine the ingredients for the meatballs and shape them into balls.
- Bake the meatballs for 30 minutes or more, depending on their size.
- Simmer the meatballs in the sauce for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with scallions.
Sauce
- Combine the cornstarch and water.
- Add the remaining ingredients to a small saucepan and bring them to a boil.
- Add the cornstarch mixture and stir until the sauce thickens.
Variations
- Substitute ground turkey or pork for the ground chicken.
- Add diced bell peppers or carrots to the meatball mixture for added flavor and texture.
- Use teriyaki sauce instead of the soy sauce in the sauce for a different flavor profile.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Toasting the breadcrumbs before adding them to the meatball mixture will enhance their flavor and texture.
- Be sure to drain the crushed pineapple well to prevent the meatballs from becoming too moist.
- Simmering the meatballs in the sauce before serving will allow the flavors to meld together and create a delicious dish.
Serving Suggestions
Hawaiian Meatballs can be served over rice or noodles, or as a standalone dish with a side of steamed vegetables.
Cooking Techniques
Baking the meatballs in the oven ensures that they cook evenly and retain their shape. Simmering the meatballs in the sauce allows them to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have fresh breadcrumbs, you can use store-bought breadcrumbs or panko breadcrumbs. You can also use canned pineapple chunks instead of crushed pineapple.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time and refrigerate them separately. When ready to serve, simply reheat the meatballs in the sauce on the stovetop.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the Hawaiian Meatballs in a decorative serving dish garnished with sliced scallions for a colorful and appetizing presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Hawaiian Meatballs pair well with a side of steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover Hawaiian Meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Hawaiian Meatballs contains approximately 300 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Hawaiian Meatballs contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Hawaiian Meatballs contains approximately 12 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of Hawaiian Meatballs contains approximately 25 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Hawaiian Meatballs are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and calcium.
Alergens
This recipe contains soy and wheat allergens.
Summary
Hawaiian Meatballs are a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Hawaiian Meatballs are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines the flavors of pineapple, soy sauce, and ginger with savory meatballs. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite for any occasion.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of excitement. I had always been drawn to the exotic flavors of Hawaiian cuisine, with its unique blend of sweet and savory ingredients. And when my dear friend Margaret shared her recipe for Hawaiian meatballs with me, I knew I had to give it a try.
Margaret and I had been friends for many years, bonding over our shared love of cooking and trying new recipes. She had learned to make these meatballs from her Hawaiian grandmother, who had passed down the recipe through generations. As Margaret recounted the story of how her grandmother would spend hours in the kitchen, carefully crafting each meatball with love and care, I couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia for my own grandmother's cooking.
I remember the first time I made these meatballs for my family. The scent of pineapple and soy sauce filled the air as they simmered away on the stove, creating a mouthwatering aroma that made my stomach growl in anticipation. When I finally served them up, my family's eyes lit up with delight as they took their first bite. The flavors were like nothing they had ever tasted before – tangy and sweet, with a hint of spice that lingered on the tongue.
From that moment on, Hawaiian meatballs became a staple in our household. My children would request them for dinner at least once a week, and I was always happy to oblige. As I continued to make them over the years, I began to experiment with the recipe, adding my own twist here and there to make it truly my own.
One of the things I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can serve the meatballs as an appetizer at a party, or pair them with rice and vegetables for a hearty meal. They are perfect for any occasion, whether it's a casual weeknight dinner or a special celebration with friends and family.
As the years went by, I shared the recipe with my own friends and family, passing on the tradition of Hawaiian meatballs to the next generation. And each time I make them, I am reminded of Margaret and her grandmother, and the bond we shared over our love of cooking and good food.
I like to think that my grandmother would be proud of the way I have carried on her legacy, sharing her recipes with others and creating new memories in the kitchen. And as I watch my own grandchildren gobble up these meatballs with joy and enthusiasm, I know that the tradition will continue for years to come.
So next time you're looking for a recipe that will transport you to the sunny shores of Hawaii, give these meatballs a try. I promise you won't be disappointed. Aloha!
Categories
| Breadcrumb Recipes | Celery Recipes | Egg Recipes | Garlic Recipes | Ginger Recipes | Ground Beef Recipes | Ground Chicken Recipes | Hawaiian Appetizers | Hawaiian Meat Dishes | Hawaiian Recipes | Main Dish Meat Recipes | Meatball Recipes | Milk And Cream Recipes | Mirin Recipes | Onion Recipes | Orange Juice Recipes | Pineapple Recipes |