Waikiki Meat Balls

Waikiki Meat Balls Recipe - Delicious Beef and Pineapple Balls from Guinea

Region / culture: Guinea | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Waikiki Meat Balls are a delicious and savory dish that combines the flavors of ground beef, onions, and ginger with a sweet and tangy pineapple sauce. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.

History

The Waikiki Meat Balls recipe originated in Hawaii, where it was inspired by the tropical flavors of the island. The combination of ground beef and pineapple creates a unique and flavorful dish that has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) ground beef
0.67 cup cracker crumbs
0.5 cup minced onions
1 egg
1.5 tsp salt
0.25 tsp ginger
0.25 cup milk

Waikiki Meatball Sauce

2 tbsp cornstarch
juice from can of pineapple chunks
0.5 cup brown sugar
0.33 cup vinegar
1 tbsp soy sauce

How to prepare

Combine all the ingredients and shape the mixture into balls.
Bake the balls at 350°F (177°C) for 20 minutes.
Mix all the ingredients, heat until thickened, and then add pineapple chunks and meatballs.
Serve the dish hot.

Variations

Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef for a lighter version of this dish.
Add diced bell peppers or carrots to the meatball mixture for added flavor and texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

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

- Baking the meatballs instead of frying them makes for a healthier dish.

- Be sure to heat the sauce until it thickens to the desired consistency before adding the meatballs.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Waikiki Meat Balls over steamed rice or with a side of vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the meatballs instead of frying them makes for a healthier dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use breadcrumbs instead of cracker crumbs for the meatballs.

- Substitute apple cider vinegar for the vinegar in the sauce for a slightly different flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

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

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Waikiki Meat Balls in a pineapple boat for a fun and festive presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a side of steamed broccoli or a green salad for a well-rounded 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 oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 350 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 23g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 18g per serving

Saturated Fat: 7g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Iron: 3mg per serving

Vitamin C: 10mg per serving

Alergens

Contains: Dairy, Gluten, Soy

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein and iron, but it is high in fat and carbohydrates. It is best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Waikiki Meat Balls are a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the savory flavors of ground beef with a sweet and tangy pineapple sauce. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite for any occasion.

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 beautiful summer day in Waikiki, Hawaii, and I was strolling through a local market filled with vibrant fruits, vegetables, and freshly caught seafood. As I meandered through the bustling aisles, the intoxicating aromas of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce wafted through the air, enticing me to follow my nose to the source.

I found myself standing in front of a small food stall run by a friendly elderly woman with a twinkle in her eye and a warm smile on her face. She was busy stirring a large pot filled with succulent meatballs in a fragrant sauce that made my mouth water just from the sight and smell of it. Intrigued by the delicious aroma and the inviting atmosphere, I couldn't resist approaching her and striking up a conversation.

As we chatted, she shared with me the story behind her famous Waikiki Meat Balls recipe. She explained that it was a traditional family recipe passed down through generations, originating from her grandmother who had learned it from a Chinese immigrant who had settled in Hawaii many years ago. The flavors of the dish were a fusion of Chinese and Hawaiian influences, creating a unique and delectable culinary experience that had become a beloved staple in Waikiki.

Intrigued by the history and the tantalizing aroma of the dish, I eagerly asked her if she would be willing to share the recipe with me. To my delight, she agreed, and with a twinkle in her eye, she began to divulge the secret ingredients and cooking techniques that made her Waikiki Meat Balls so special.

The first step was to mix together ground pork with minced garlic, ginger, green onions, and a splash of soy sauce. The combination of these ingredients created a savory and aromatic base for the meatballs that would infuse them with mouthwatering flavor. Next, she added breadcrumbs soaked in milk to bind the ingredients together and ensure a tender and juicy texture.

Once the meatball mixture was well combined, she rolled them into small balls and placed them in a hot skillet to brown and develop a crispy exterior. As the meatballs sizzled and caramelized in the pan, the fragrance of garlic and ginger filled the air, creating an irresistible aroma that made my stomach growl with anticipation.

While the meatballs cooked, she prepared the sauce by mixing together soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and a touch of cornstarch to thicken and enhance the flavor. The sauce simmered and thickened to a glossy glaze, ready to envelop the meatballs in a luscious coating of savory sweetness.

Once the meatballs were golden brown and cooked through, she poured the sauce over them, allowing the flavors to meld and marry in a harmonious union of sweetness and savoriness. The meatballs glistened with the rich sauce, beckoning me to take a bite and savor the explosion of flavors that awaited me.

With a knowing smile, she handed me a fork and a plate stacked high with Waikiki Meat Balls, urging me to taste the dish that had captivated the hearts and palates of so many in Waikiki. As I took my first bite, I was transported to a culinary paradise of tender meatballs bathed in a luscious sauce that danced on my taste buds with a symphony of flavors that I had never experienced before.

From that moment on, the Waikiki Meat Balls recipe became a treasured gem in my collection of culinary treasures, a reminder of the day I stumbled upon a hidden culinary gem in the heart of Waikiki. Every time I prepare this dish, I am transported back to that sunny day in Hawaii, where the aroma of garlic and ginger mingled with the salty sea breeze, creating a memory that will forever be etched in my heart.

As I sit in my kitchen, rolling meatballs and stirring sauce, I am filled with gratitude for the kind woman who shared her family recipe with me and the culinary journey that brought me to this moment. The Waikiki Meat Balls recipe is not just a dish but a connection to a place, a culture, and a tradition that has enriched my life in ways I never imagined. And as I take a bite of the tender meatballs bathed in the savory-sweet sauce, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together, to create memories, and to nourish both body and soul. It is a recipe that I will cherish and pass down to future generations, a taste of Waikiki that will forever hold a special place in my heart.