Premium Turkey Meatballs

Premium Turkey Meatballs Recipe from California | Ingredients: Turkey, Onion, Garlic, Sun-dried Tomatoes, Basil, Fennel Seeds, Pepper, Eggs

Region / culture: California | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Turkey meatballs are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional beef meatballs. They are packed with flavor and are a great option for those looking to reduce their red meat intake. In this recipe, we will show you how to make premium turkey meatballs that are sure to impress your family and friends.

History

Turkey meatballs have been a popular dish in many cultures for centuries. They are often served as a main course or as an appetizer at parties and gatherings. The combination of ground turkey with herbs and spices creates a flavorful and satisfying dish that is loved by many.

Ingredients

1.25 lb (567 g) ground turkey
0.5 medium white onion, chopped finely
4 garlic cloves, chopped finely
0.5 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
0.5 bunch fresh basil, chopped
0.25 cup fennel seeds
1 tsp ground pepper
2 eggs, beaten

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Combine all the prepared ingredients in a mixing bowl.
Grease a large baking sheet.
Form the mixture into balls with a diameter of 2 inches and place them on the sheet. This should yield 18-20 balls.
Bake for 20–25 minutes until the tops turn slightly brown and the balls become firm to the touch. Allow them to cool for a few minutes.

Variations

Add chopped spinach or kale to the meatball mixture for added nutrition.
Use different herbs and spices, such as oregano or cumin, to change up the flavor profile.
Substitute ground chicken or pork for the ground turkey for a different twist on the recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure not to overmix the ingredients when forming the meatballs, as this can result in a tough texture.

- Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 165°F to ensure they are fully cooked.

- For extra flavor, you can add grated Parmesan cheese or breadcrumbs to the meatball mixture.

Serving Suggestions

These turkey meatballs can be served with pasta, on a bed of greens, or as a sandwich filling. They can also be served with a side of marinara sauce or tzatziki for dipping.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the meatballs in the oven ensures that they cook evenly and retain their shape. Be sure to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure they are fully cooked.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have fennel seeds, you can substitute with ground fennel or omit them altogether. You can also use dried basil in place of fresh basil if needed.

Make Ahead Tips

These turkey meatballs can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve these turkey meatballs on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving at parties. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra touch.

Pairing Recommendations

These turkey meatballs pair well with a variety of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a simple salad. They also go well with a glass of red wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover turkey meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of these turkey meatballs contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of these turkey meatballs contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of these turkey meatballs contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of these turkey meatballs contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Turkey meat is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, and B vitamins.

Alergens

These turkey meatballs contain eggs.

Summary

These turkey meatballs are a nutritious and delicious option for a meal. They are high in protein and low in carbohydrates, making them a great choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.

Summary

These premium turkey meatballs are a delicious and healthy option for a meal. Packed with flavor and protein, they are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Premium Turkey Meatballs. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha in her charming little cottage by the lake. Martha was known for her amazing cooking skills, and she always had a new recipe up her sleeve to share with me.

On that particular day, Martha had decided to make turkey meatballs for dinner, and I was more than happy to lend a helping hand in the kitchen. As we chopped, mixed, and rolled the meatballs, Martha shared with me the secret ingredients and techniques that made her meatballs so delicious.

The first step in making these premium turkey meatballs was selecting the best quality ground turkey. Martha explained that using lean ground turkey was crucial to achieving the perfect texture and flavor. She also emphasized the importance of seasoning the meat well with a blend of herbs and spices, including garlic, onion powder, oregano, and parsley.

As we worked together in the kitchen, Martha shared with me the story of how she had learned to make these meatballs from her own grandmother. She described how her grandmother would spend hours in the kitchen, lovingly preparing meals for her family and friends. Martha's grandmother had a knack for creating simple yet delicious recipes that were always a hit at gatherings.

After shaping the meatballs and placing them on a baking sheet, Martha showed me the next crucial step in the recipe - making the sauce. She explained that the key to a flavorful sauce was to use a combination of crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and a splash of red wine. She also added a pinch of sugar to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes and a dash of Worcestershire sauce for an extra depth of flavor.

As the meatballs baked in the oven and the aroma of garlic and herbs filled the air, Martha and I sat down to enjoy a cup of tea and reminisce about the old days. She told me stories of her childhood, growing up in a small town where everyone knew each other and food was a central part of every gathering.

When the timer finally went off and we pulled the meatballs out of the oven, I could hardly wait to taste them. The meatballs were perfectly cooked, tender and juicy, with a rich and flavorful sauce that complemented them perfectly. I savored each bite, savoring the memories of that day spent with Martha in her cozy kitchen by the lake.

Since that day, I have made Martha's Premium Turkey Meatballs countless times for my own family and friends. Each time I prepare them, I am reminded of the joy and warmth that comes from sharing a meal with loved ones. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, and I am grateful to Martha for passing it down to me.

As I sit here writing this story, I can't help but smile at the thought of Martha and her delicious turkey meatballs. Though she may no longer be with us, her legacy lives on in the recipes she shared and the memories we created together in the kitchen. And so, I will continue to make these premium turkey meatballs with love and gratitude, honoring the bond that we shared and the joy that comes from good food and good company.