Meatballs Espanol

Meatballs Espanol Recipe from Spain with Beef and Vegetables

Region / culture: Spain | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Meatballs Espanol is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines tender meatballs with a savory tomato and zucchini sauce. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion.

History

Meatballs Espanol is a traditional Spanish dish that has been enjoyed for generations. The combination of tender meatballs and a rich tomato sauce is a classic flavor profile that is loved by many.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) lean ground beef
1 cup soft bread crumbs
0.25 cup finely chopped onion
0.25 cup finely chopped celery
1.5 tsp worcestershire sauce
1 egg
1 tbsp garlic salt, divided
0.25 tsp ground black pepper
1 14-0.5- to 16 oz (454 g) can stewed tomatoes (2 cup)
12 oz (340 g) zucchini, thinly sliced (about 2-0.5 cup)
0.5 tsp oregano leaves, crushed
0.5 tsp basil leaves, crushed
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 cup beef broth (canned or made with bouillon cube)
1 spaghetti squash (cut into cleaned out and baked) instead of rice.

How to prepare

Combine beef, bread crumbs, onion, celery, Worcestershire sauce, egg, 1-0.5 tsp garlic salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly. Form into 12 meatballs. Place in a buttered shallow baking pan. Bake at 375°F (191°C) for 20 minutes.
Meanwhile, combine tomatoes, zucchini, oregano, and basil. Simmer for 5 minutes. Blend cornstarch and broth, then stir into the tomato mixture. Pour over the meatballs and continue baking for 10 minutes longer. Serve over fluffy rice or spaghetti squash.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor.
Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to mix the meatball ingredients thoroughly to ensure that they hold together well.

- Baking the meatballs before adding them to the sauce helps them retain their shape and texture.

- Simmering the tomato and zucchini sauce allows the flavors to meld together and creates a delicious base for the meatballs.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Meatballs Espanol over fluffy rice or spaghetti squash for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the meatballs before adding them to the sauce helps them retain their shape and texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. You can also use gluten-free bread crumbs if you have a gluten intolerance.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake and serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Meatballs Espanol in a shallow bowl over a bed of fluffy rice or spaghetti squash for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers 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

Calories: 300 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 25g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 12g per serving

Saturated Fat: 4g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 20g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as iron and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten from the bread crumbs and egg.

Summary

Meatballs Espanol is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, as well as essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Meatballs Espanol is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. With a rich tomato and zucchini sauce and tender meatballs, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Meatballs Espanol. It was a warm summer day, and I was strolling through the bustling streets of Madrid, taking in the sights and sounds of this vibrant city. As I passed by a quaint little cafe, I caught a whiff of the most delicious aroma wafting through the air. Intrigued, I followed my nose and found myself standing in front of a small, bustling kitchen where a talented chef was cooking up a storm.

I watched in awe as he expertly rolled out meatballs and placed them in a sizzling pan, the sound of the meat sizzling and the aroma of spices filling the air. I simply had to know the secret behind this mouthwatering dish. So, I mustered up the courage to approach the chef and ask him about the recipe for his Meatballs Espanol.

To my surprise, he was more than happy to share his recipe with me. He explained that the key to making the perfect Meatballs Espanol was in the combination of spices and the method of cooking. He showed me how to mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, garlic, and a blend of Spanish spices like paprika, cumin, and oregano to create the perfect flavor profile. He also shared his secret for a delicious tomato-based sauce that would perfectly complement the meatballs.

I eagerly jotted down the recipe in my notebook, grateful for the chef's generosity in sharing his culinary knowledge with me. From that day on, I made it my mission to perfect the art of making Meatballs Espanol in my own kitchen. I spent hours experimenting with different ratios of spices, adjusting the cooking time, and tweaking the sauce until I finally achieved the perfect balance of flavors.

Over the years, I have shared this recipe with friends and family, delighting them with the rich, savory taste of Meatballs Espanol. Each time I make this dish, I am transported back to that sunny day in Madrid when I first discovered the magic of Spanish cuisine.

I remember the first time I made Meatballs Espanol for my grandchildren. They watched with wide eyes as I rolled out the meatballs and cooked them in the pan, the delicious aroma filling the kitchen. When I served them the dish, their faces lit up with delight as they took their first bite. "Grandma, these are the best meatballs we've ever tasted!" they exclaimed, their mouths full of the savory goodness.

It warms my heart to see my grandchildren enjoying a dish that holds such special memories for me. I love passing down the tradition of cooking and sharing recipes with them, just as my own grandmother did with me so many years ago.

As I sit down to enjoy a plate of Meatballs Espanol, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences and people who have shaped my culinary journey. From the bustling streets of Madrid to the cozy kitchen of my own home, each recipe I have collected holds a special place in my heart.

And so, as I savor each bite of these delicious meatballs, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together, to create memories, and to pass down traditions from one generation to the next. Cooking is not just about following a recipe, it is about sharing a piece of yourself with those you love. And for that, I am truly grateful.