Lavender Glazed Meatballs
Lavender Glazed Meatballs Recipe from France
Introduction
Lavender Glazed Meatballs are a unique and flavorful twist on traditional meatballs. The combination of ground lamb, dried lavender buds, and lavender jelly creates a delicious and aromatic dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.
History
The use of lavender in cooking dates back centuries, with the herb being prized for its fragrant and floral flavor. Lavender Glazed Meatballs are a modern take on this ancient ingredient, combining it with savory lamb and spices to create a truly memorable dish.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (454 g) ground lamb
- 1 egg
- 0.5 cup soft breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp dried lavender buds, crushed
- 0.5 tsp each garlic powder, black pepper, and oregano
- 0.25 tsp each cinnamon, coriander, and cayenne
- 2 tbsp lavender jelly
How to prepare
- Lightly mix together all ingredients except jelly.
- Form into balls about the size of walnuts.
- In a cast iron or non-stick skillet, brown meatballs on all sides over medium heat.
- When meatballs are done, add lavender jelly to skillet.
- Stir gently to thoroughly glaze the meatballs.
- Serve with rice pilaf and a green salad.
Variations
- Substitute ground beef or turkey for the ground lamb.
- Use fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary in place of the dried lavender buds.
- Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or soy sauce to the glaze for extra flavor.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to crush the dried lavender buds before adding them to the meatball mixture to release their full flavor.
- Use a non-stick skillet or well-seasoned cast iron pan to brown the meatballs evenly and prevent sticking.
- Gently stir the lavender jelly into the skillet to coat the meatballs evenly and create a glossy glaze.
Serving Suggestions
Lavender Glazed Meatballs are delicious served with rice pilaf and a green salad.
Cooking Techniques
Lightly mix the meatball ingredients to prevent them from becoming tough.
- Brown the meatballs in a skillet before adding the glaze to ensure they are cooked through.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use honey or maple syrup in place of lavender jelly.
- Swap out the breadcrumbs for almond meal or crushed crackers for a gluten-free option.
Make Ahead Tips
Prepare the meatball mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to cook. The glazed meatballs can also be reheated the next day for a quick and easy meal.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the Lavender Glazed Meatballs on a platter garnished with fresh lavender sprigs for a beautiful and elegant presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Lavender Glazed Meatballs with a light and fruity red wine such as Pinot Noir or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Lavender Glazed Meatballs contains approximately 350 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Lavender Glazed Meatballs contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Lavender Glazed Meatballs contains approximately 20 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of Lavender Glazed Meatballs contains approximately 25 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Lavender Glazed Meatballs are a good source of iron, vitamin B12, and zinc.
Alergens
Lavender Glazed Meatballs contain eggs and breadcrumbs, which may be allergens for some individuals.
Summary
Lavender Glazed Meatballs are a nutritious and protein-rich dish that is perfect for a satisfying meal.
Summary
Lavender Glazed Meatballs are a delicious and aromatic dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner. With a unique combination of flavors and a beautiful presentation, these meatballs are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.
How did I get this recipe?
I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Lavender Glazed Meatballs in an old, tattered cookbook that had been tucked away in the back of my grandmother's kitchen cabinet. The pages were yellowed and stained with years of use, but the recipe for these unique meatballs caught my eye.
I had never heard of using lavender in a savory dish before, and I was intrigued by the idea of combining the floral, herbaceous flavors of lavender with the rich, savory flavors of meatballs. I knew I had to try it out.
I asked my grandmother about the recipe, and she told me that she had learned it from a dear friend many years ago. Her friend had traveled to France and had brought back a love for cooking with lavender, and this recipe was one of her favorites. My grandmother had made the meatballs for special occasions and family gatherings, and they had always been a hit.
I decided to give the recipe a try for a dinner party I was hosting for my friends. I gathered all the ingredients – ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic, onion, and of course, dried lavender – and got to work.
I mixed the ground beef with the breadcrumbs, eggs, minced garlic, diced onion, and a generous sprinkling of dried lavender. The aroma of the lavender filled the kitchen, and I was transported to a field of blooming purple flowers.
I rolled the mixture into small meatballs and placed them on a baking sheet, then popped them into the oven to bake. While the meatballs were cooking, I prepared the glaze – a simple combination of honey, soy sauce, and more dried lavender.
When the meatballs were golden brown and cooked through, I brushed them with the lavender glaze and returned them to the oven for a few more minutes to let the flavors meld together.
When I pulled the meatballs out of the oven and plated them up, I couldn't wait to see what my friends thought. As we sat down to eat, the room was filled with the sound of laughter and conversation, but all I could think about was how the meatballs would taste.
I took a bite, and my taste buds were overwhelmed with the unique combination of flavors – the savory meatballs, the sweet and tangy glaze, and the subtle hint of lavender that lingered on my tongue. My friends all raved about how delicious the meatballs were, and I felt a sense of pride knowing that I had successfully recreated a recipe that had been passed down through generations.
From that day on, Lavender Glazed Meatballs became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I would make them for family dinners, potlucks, and any time I wanted to impress guests with a dish that was both delicious and unexpected.
As I look back on that day in my grandmother's kitchen, I am grateful for the curiosity that led me to discover this unique recipe. It is a reminder that there is always something new to learn in the world of cooking, and that sometimes the most unexpected flavor combinations can lead to the most memorable dishes.
Categories
| French Recipes | Garlic Powder Recipes | Lamb Recipes | Lavender Recipes | Oregano Recipes | Rice Recipes | Walnut Recipes |