Thai Chicken Meatballs

Thai Chicken Meatballs Recipe - Delicious and Satisfying Dish

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

Introduction

Thai Chicken Meatballs are a delicious and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or main course. These meatballs are made with ground chicken, fresh breadcrumbs, scallions, coriander, cilantro, and lemon juice, giving them a unique Thai-inspired taste. They are easy to make and perfect for a quick and tasty meal.

History

Thai Chicken Meatballs are a popular dish in Thailand, where they are often served as street food or as part of a larger meal. The combination of flavors and spices in these meatballs reflects the traditional Thai cuisine, which is known for its bold and vibrant flavors. This recipe has been adapted and modified over the years to suit different tastes and preferences.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) of ground chicken
1 cup of fresh breadcrumbs
4 scallions, finely sliced
1 tbsp of ground coriander
1 cup of chopped fresh cilantro
2 tbsp of fresh lemon juice
oil, for shallow-frying
grated cucumber, optional
0.25 cup of hot sauce or sweet chili sauce, optional

How to prepare

In a mixing bowl, combine all ingredients except for oil, cucumber, and chili sauces.
Moisten hands and shape one tablespoon of the ground chicken mixture into a meatball. Repeat until all mixture is used. Freeze the Thai-style meatballs overnight.
In a frying pan, heat oil and shallow-fry the meatballs until they turn brown and are fully cooked.
Serve the meatballs hot, either plain or with other dishes. Optionally, garnish with grated cucumber and lightly drizzle with hot sauce or sweet chili sauce.

Variations

Add minced garlic or ginger for extra flavor.
Use ground turkey or pork instead of chicken for a different taste.
Add chopped chili peppers for a spicy kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to moisten your hands when shaping the meatballs to prevent them from sticking.

- Freezing the meatballs overnight helps them hold their shape and prevents them from falling apart during cooking.

- Shallow-frying the meatballs in oil gives them a crispy exterior and locks in the flavors.

- Serve the meatballs hot for the best taste and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Thai Chicken Meatballs can be served as an appetizer with a dipping sauce or as a main course with rice or noodles. They can also be added to soups or salads for extra flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Shallow-frying the meatballs in oil gives them a crispy exterior and locks in the flavors. Make sure to cook them until they are browned and fully cooked.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute ground chicken with ground turkey or pork. You can also use panko breadcrumbs instead of fresh breadcrumbs.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the meatball mixture in advance and freeze it overnight. This allows the flavors to develop and makes it easier to shape the meatballs.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Thai Chicken Meatballs on a platter garnished with fresh cilantro and sliced scallions. You can also drizzle them with sweet chili sauce for extra flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Thai Chicken Meatballs pair well with jasmine rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. They also go well with a side of pickled vegetables or a spicy dipping sauce.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Thai Chicken Meatballs 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 Thai Chicken Meatballs contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Thai Chicken Meatballs contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Thai Chicken Meatballs contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Thai Chicken Meatballs contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Thai Chicken Meatballs are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and iron.

Alergens

Thai Chicken Meatballs contain gluten from breadcrumbs. They may also contain soy if using soy sauce as a seasoning.

Summary

Thai Chicken Meatballs are a balanced dish that provides a good amount of proteins and healthy fats. They are relatively low in carbohydrates and calories, making them a nutritious option for a meal.

Summary

Thai Chicken Meatballs are a delicious and flavorful dish that is easy to make and perfect for a quick and tasty meal. They are packed with proteins and healthy fats, making them a nutritious option for a balanced diet. Serve them as an appetizer or main course with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Thai Chicken Meatballs. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Sarah in Thailand. We had been friends for years, and she knew of my love for cooking. As we sat in her kitchen, she showed me how to make these delicious meatballs that were a staple in her family.

Sarah's family had been making these meatballs for generations, and she had learned the recipe from her grandmother. The ingredients were simple, yet the flavors were complex and rich. I watched as Sarah expertly mixed ground chicken with garlic, ginger, and lemongrass, forming the mixture into small balls before frying them until golden brown and crispy.

As the meatballs sizzled in the pan, the aroma of spices filled the air, and I couldn't wait to try them. Sarah served the meatballs with a spicy dipping sauce made from chilies, fish sauce, and lime juice, and I was immediately hooked. The combination of flavors was unlike anything I had ever tasted before – savory, tangy, and just a hint of sweetness.

After that day, I begged Sarah to teach me how to make the meatballs, and she graciously agreed. We spent hours in the kitchen, chopping, mixing, and frying until we had perfected the recipe. I wrote down every step, every measurement, and every secret ingredient Sarah shared with me, knowing that I had stumbled upon a culinary treasure.

When I returned home, I couldn't wait to share the recipe with my own family. I made a batch of Thai Chicken Meatballs for dinner, and as we sat around the table, enjoying the flavors of Thailand, I knew that this recipe would become a cherished tradition in our home.

Over the years, I have made these meatballs for countless family gatherings, potlucks, and dinner parties. Each time, they are met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I have even passed it down to my own children, ensuring that the tradition continues for generations to come.

As I look back on that day in Sarah's kitchen, I am grateful for the gift of this recipe. It has not only brought joy and delicious food into my life but has also connected me to a culture and a friend in a way that I never could have imagined.

So, the next time you are looking for a unique and flavorful dish to serve to your loved ones, consider making these Thai Chicken Meatballs. I promise you won't be disappointed. Just be sure to savor each bite and remember the story behind the recipe – a story of friendship, tradition, and the love of good food.