Lithuanian Pork Meatballs

Lithuanian Pork Meatballs Recipe - Traditional Dish from Lithuania

Region / culture: Lithuania | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour and 15 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Lithuanian Pork Meatballs are a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. These meatballs are packed with flavor and are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

History

Pork meatballs have been a staple in Lithuanian cuisine for centuries. They are often served at celebrations and family gatherings, and are a beloved comfort food for many Lithuanians.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) of fresh ground pork
2 eggs
1 tsp of salt
pepper to taste
0.25 tsp of allspice
2 medium onions, chopped
0.5 cup of cracker crumbs

How to prepare

Mix all the ingredients together.
Shape the mixture into 1-inch thick and 2.5-inch long pieces.
Fry the pieces until they turn brown.
Bake them at 350°F (177°C) for 1 hour.

Variations

You can add chopped parsley or dill to the meatball mixture for added flavor.
For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed.

- Be careful not to overcook the meatballs, as they can become dry and tough.

- If you prefer a crispier exterior, you can fry the meatballs in a pan before baking them in the oven.

Serving Suggestions

Lithuanian Pork Meatballs can be served with mashed potatoes, sauerkraut, or a fresh green salad.

Cooking Techniques

The meatballs can be fried in a pan before baking to achieve a crispy exterior.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use ground beef or ground turkey instead of pork for a different flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the meatball mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to cook them.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the meatballs on a platter garnished with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Lithuanian Pork Meatballs pair well with a glass of red wine or a cold beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Lithuanian Pork Meatballs contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Lithuanian Pork Meatballs contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Lithuanian Pork Meatballs contains approximately 20 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Lithuanian Pork Meatballs contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Lithuanian Pork Meatballs are a good source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs and gluten from the cracker crumbs.

Summary

Lithuanian Pork Meatballs are a nutritious and delicious dish that is high in protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Lithuanian Pork Meatballs are a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a flavorful and comforting meal that your whole family will love.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Lithuanian Pork Meatballs. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the small village of Vilnius, Lithuania. My grandmother, who was known for her amazing cooking skills, had invited me into the kitchen to help her prepare a special meal for our family.

As I watched her expertly mix together the ground pork, onions, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, I couldn't help but be in awe of her culinary talents. She explained to me that this recipe had been passed down through generations in our family, originating from a distant relative who had once served as a cook in the royal court.

I was fascinated by the history behind this dish, and my grandmother took the time to tell me stories of our ancestors and their love for good food. She shared with me how the meatballs were traditionally served at festive occasions such as weddings and holidays, and how each family had their own unique variation of the recipe.

As we shaped the mixture into perfectly round meatballs and placed them in a hot skillet to brown, the mouthwatering aroma filled the kitchen. My grandmother taught me the importance of patience and attention to detail in cooking, ensuring that each meatball was cooked to perfection before being served with a rich tomato and onion sauce.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal together, my grandmother's eyes sparkled with pride as she watched me savor each bite. She knew that she was passing down more than just a recipe to me – she was sharing a piece of our family's heritage and a love for good food that would stay with me for the rest of my life.

Over the years, I have continued to make Lithuanian Pork Meatballs for my own family, adding my own twists and variations to the recipe. I have shared it with friends and neighbors, who have all been impressed by the delicious flavors and comforting warmth of this traditional dish.

Every time I make these meatballs, I am reminded of my grandmother and the time we spent together in the kitchen, bonding over our shared love for cooking. I am grateful for the memories and skills she passed down to me, and I know that I will continue to cherish this recipe for years to come.

So the next time you are craving a hearty and flavorful meal, why not try making Lithuanian Pork Meatballs? I promise you won't be disappointed – after all, it's a recipe that has stood the test of time and brought joy to generations of my family. Enjoy!