Meatballs in Tomato Sauce with Onion, Garlic and Spices

Meatballs in Tomato Sauce with Onion, Garlic and Spices Recipe from Arabia

Region / culture: Arabia | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Meatballs in Tomato Sauce with Onion, Garlic and Spices is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. The combination of savory meatballs, tangy tomato sauce, and aromatic spices creates a flavorful and satisfying meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.

History

Meatballs in Tomato Sauce is a classic dish that has been enjoyed by people all over the world for centuries. The origins of this recipe can be traced back to various cultures, including Italian, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean cuisines. Each region has its own unique twist on the dish, but the basic concept of meatballs cooked in a rich tomato sauce remains the same.

Ingredients

0.75 cup of bulgur
8 oz (227 g) of ground beef
0.5 cup of finely chopped onion
0.25 tsp of ground cinnamon
0.25 tsp of salt
0.5 tsp of ground allspice
0.5 tsp of pepper
3 tsp of canola oil
1 tbsp of minced garlic
28 oz (794 g) can of crushed tomatoes
1 tsp of sugar
0.5 cup of packed chopped cilantro

How to prepare

Mix bulgur, beef, onion, cinnamon, 0.5 tsp of salt, allspice, and 0.25 tsp of pepper.
Roll rounded tablespoons of the mixture into balls.
Heat 1 tsp of oil in a skillet.
Add the meatballs and cook until browned.
Transfer the meatballs to a plate.
Heat the remaining oil in the skillet.
Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
Stir in tomatoes, sugar, remaining salt and pepper, and the meatballs.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover, and cook for 25 minutes or until the bulgur is tender.
Serve the dish sprinkled with cilantro.

Variations

Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version of the dish.
Add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the tomato sauce for extra flavor and nutrients.
Top the dish with grated Parmesan cheese or fresh basil for a finishing touch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to mix the meatball mixture thoroughly to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

- Use a combination of ground beef and bulgur for a lighter and healthier meatball.

- Browning the meatballs before adding them to the sauce adds extra flavor and texture to the dish.

- Be sure to simmer the meatballs in the tomato sauce for at least 25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Meatballs in Tomato Sauce can be served over cooked pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. It pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the meatballs before adding them to the sauce helps to seal in the juices and adds a nice crust to the outside.

- Simmering the meatballs in the tomato sauce allows the flavors to meld together and creates a rich and flavorful dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use quinoa or rice instead of bulgur for a gluten-free option.

- Olive oil can be used in place of canola oil for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Meatballs in Tomato Sauce can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat the dish on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Meatballs in Tomato Sauce in a large serving dish garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley. You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra touch of flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Meatballs in Tomato Sauce pairs well with a glass of red wine, such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving the dish with a glass of sparkling water with a splash of lemon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Meatballs in Tomato Sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the dish in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Meatballs in Tomato Sauce contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Meatballs in Tomato Sauce contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Meatballs in Tomato Sauce contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Meatballs in Tomato Sauce contains approximately 18 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Meatballs in Tomato Sauce is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains wheat (bulgur) and soy (canola oil) allergens.

Summary

Meatballs in Tomato Sauce is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious and satisfying dish.

Summary

Meatballs in Tomato Sauce with Onion, Garlic and Spices is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying meal with your loved ones!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy little kitchen. Maria was known far and wide for her delicious meatballs in tomato sauce, and I had been begging her for the recipe for years.

As we sat at her kitchen table, sipping on cups of steaming coffee, Maria finally relented and handed me a faded, yellowed piece of paper. On it was scrawled the ingredients and instructions for her famous meatballs in tomato sauce.

I couldn't believe my luck! I had been trying to recreate Maria's meatballs for years, but I could never quite get them to taste as good as hers. Now, armed with her secret recipe, I was determined to master the art of making perfect meatballs.

I set to work in my own kitchen, carefully following Maria's instructions. I mixed together ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, and a secret blend of spices. With my hands covered in sticky meatball mixture, I rolled the mixture into perfectly round balls and placed them on a baking sheet.

While the meatballs baked in the oven, I turned my attention to the tomato sauce. I sautéed onions and garlic in olive oil until they were soft and fragrant, then added in crushed tomatoes, sugar, and more of Maria's secret spice blend.

As the sauce simmered on the stove, filling my kitchen with the rich aroma of tomatoes and spices, I knew I was on the right track. When the meatballs were done baking, I carefully nestled them into the tomato sauce, making sure each one was coated in the savory mixture.

I let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for what seemed like an eternity, the flavors melding together and creating a tantalizing aroma that made my mouth water. Finally, it was time to serve.

I scooped a generous portion of meatballs and sauce onto a plate, topping it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a dusting of grated Parmesan cheese. I took a bite, and my taste buds exploded with flavor.

Maria's meatballs were everything I had hoped for and more. The tender, juicy meatballs were perfectly seasoned, and the tomato sauce was rich and savory with just a hint of sweetness. I knew I had finally cracked the code to Maria's famous recipe, and I couldn't wait to share it with my family and friends.

Since that day, Maria's meatballs in tomato sauce have become a staple in my kitchen. I make them for family gatherings, dinner parties, and lazy Sunday afternoons. Each time I prepare them, I think of Maria and the day she shared her secret recipe with me.

I am forever grateful to Maria for passing down her knowledge and expertise to me. Her meatballs in tomato sauce will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of friendship, good food, and the joy of cooking for those you love. And as I sit down to enjoy another plate of Maria's meatballs, I can't help but smile, knowing that her legacy will live on through me and my own cooking adventures.