Mrs. Truman's Spaghetti and Meat Balls

Authentic Italian Mrs. Truman's Spaghetti and Meat Balls Recipe

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

Introduction

Mrs. Truman's Spaghetti and Meat Balls is a classic recipe that has been passed down through generations. This hearty and comforting dish is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. The combination of tender spaghetti noodles, savory meatballs, and rich tomato sauce is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

History

This recipe has been a favorite in the Truman family for decades. Mrs. Truman, a talented cook and loving mother, created this recipe to feed her growing family. The combination of simple ingredients and bold flavors has made this dish a staple in their household and a favorite among friends and neighbors.

Ingredients

Sauce

1.5 cup water
1 x 16 oz (454 g) canned tomato
1 cup tomato paste
3 tbsp oil
1 chopped onion
1 clove garlic
1 tsp salt

How to prepare

Cook the spaghetti in salted water, then blanch and strain it well.
Set it aside.
Mix the sauce ingredients together in a pot and simmer for 30 minutes.
Brown the hamburger, onion, and garlic before mixing them together; cook for 30 minutes.
Stir often to prevent burning.

Variations

For a healthier option, use whole wheat spaghetti noodles and lean ground turkey in place of hamburger.
Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as oregano, basil, or red pepper flakes, to customize the flavor of the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the spaghetti noodles until they are al dente, or slightly firm to the bite. Overcooked noodles can become mushy and unappetizing.

- When browning the hamburger, onion, and garlic, be sure to stir often to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.

- For the best flavor, simmer the sauce for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and develop a rich, robust taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Mrs. Truman's Spaghetti and Meat Balls with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal. Top with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to blanch and strain the spaghetti noodles well to prevent them from becoming soggy.

- When browning the hamburger, onion, and garlic, use a large skillet or pot to ensure even cooking and browning.

- Simmer the sauce on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together and develop a rich, robust taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have canned tomatoes on hand, you can use fresh tomatoes instead. Simply chop them up and cook them down in the sauce.

- Feel free to use ground chicken or turkey in place of hamburger for a lighter option.

- If you're out of tomato paste, you can substitute with tomato sauce or ketchup for a slightly different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the sauce and meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat and cook the spaghetti noodles when ready to serve for a quick and easy meal.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Mrs. Truman's Spaghetti and Meat Balls in a large serving bowl or on individual plates for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a glass of red wine, such as a Chianti or Merlot. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving with sparkling water or iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Mrs. Truman's Spaghetti and Meat Balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Mrs. Truman's Spaghetti and Meat Balls contains approximately 400 calories. This dish is a satisfying and filling meal that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Mrs. Truman's Spaghetti and Meat Balls contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and can help fuel your daily activities.

Fats

Each serving of this dish contains approximately 15 grams of fat. While fats are an essential nutrient for the body, it is important to consume them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Proteins

Each serving of Mrs. Truman's Spaghetti and Meat Balls contains approximately 20 grams of protein. Protein is important for building and repairing tissues in the body and can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron. Vitamin C is important for immune function, vitamin A is essential for vision and skin health, and iron is important for oxygen transport in the body.

Alergens

This recipe contains wheat (spaghetti) and soy (hamburger). It may also contain dairy if cheese is added as a topping. Please be mindful of any food allergies or sensitivities when preparing this dish.

Summary

Mrs. Truman's Spaghetti and Meat Balls is a well-rounded dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a satisfying and comforting meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Summary

Mrs. Truman's Spaghetti and Meat Balls is a classic and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner or gathering with friends. With tender spaghetti noodles, savory meatballs, and rich tomato sauce, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household as well. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, and I had just finished browsing through the cookbook section of the local library. As I was about to leave, an elderly woman approached me with a smile and asked if I was interested in learning a special recipe. Intrigued, I eagerly agreed, and she handed me a worn piece of paper with the title 'Mrs. Truman's Spaghetti and Meatballs' written at the top.

Mrs. Truman explained that the recipe had been passed down in her family for generations and was a treasured secret among her relatives. She had decided to share it with me because she saw the same passion for cooking in my eyes that she had once possessed. I thanked her profusely and promised to cherish and honor the recipe.

I rushed home with excitement, eager to try out the recipe. As I gathered the ingredients and followed the instructions carefully, the aroma of garlic, tomatoes, and herbs filled my kitchen, transporting me back to Mrs. Truman's cozy cottage where she had shared her culinary wisdom with me.

The first bite of the spaghetti and meatballs was a revelation. The flavors were bold and comforting, the meatballs tender and succulent, and the sauce rich and flavorful. I knew that I had stumbled upon a gem of a recipe that would become a staple in my family for years to come.

Over the years, I have made Mrs. Truman's Spaghetti and Meatballs countless times, each time tweaking and perfecting the recipe to suit my taste. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all marveled at its deliciousness and begged for the secret behind its magic.

But the true magic lies not just in the ingredients or the cooking technique, but in the story behind the recipe. Mrs. Truman's act of kindness in sharing her family's secret with me has inspired me to pay it forward and pass on the recipe to others who share my love for cooking.

In a world where recipes are readily available online and in countless cookbooks, Mrs. Truman's Spaghetti and Meatballs stands out as a reminder of the power of human connection and the joy of sharing food and stories with others.

As I sit here now, reminiscing about the day I first received the recipe, I am filled with gratitude for the chance encounter with Mrs. Truman and the gift of her culinary wisdom. I hope that this story will inspire others to seek out and cherish the recipes that hold a special place in their hearts, for in each dish lies a story waiting to be told and shared with the world.