Ingredients
- Mixed Minced Meat (Beef and Pork): 400 grams
- Eggs: 3
- Stale Breadcrumbs: 80 grams
- Grated Cheese: 60 grams
- Parsley: 1 tuft
- Garlic: 1 clove
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: as needed
- Salt: as needed
Meatballs are a classic Italian dish known for their simple yet delicious preparation. Made with ground meat, eggs, breadcrumbs, parsley, and cheese, these meaty balls are typically fried until golden and crispy. Often served hot, they’re a favorite at family gatherings, especially Sunday lunches.
You can bake them or simmer them in tomato sauce, which makes a great pasta topping, or prepare them without sauce.
To enhance the flavor, add herbs like rosemary or thyme, spices, or a bit of chili pepper.
For a richer taste, mix in chopped cooked ham or mortadella, or stuff them with mozzarella.
To ensure they’re extra tender, incorporate cow’s ricotta or mashed boiled potato. Meatballs can also be customized for various diets by using fish or replacing meat with mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
How to prepare meatballs
Step 1 Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the two types of minced meat with chopped breadcrumbs.
Step 2 Add Cheese: Stir in the grated cheese.
Step 3 Mix in Oil: Pour in the olive oil and mix well to combine.
Step 4 Season: Add finely chopped parsley and garlic to the mixture for flavor.
Step 5 Mix Thoroughly: Use your hands or a fork to mix everything until the mixture is uniform.
Step 6 Form Meatballs: Pinch off pieces of the mixture about the size of an apricot and roll them into balls between your palms.
Step 7 Form Arrange for Cooking: Place the formed meatballs on a plate.
Step 8 Heat Oil: In a large pan, heat a generous drizzle of olive oil over medium heat.
Step 9 Cook Meatballs: Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs to the pan, ensuring not to crowd them..
Step 10 Brown Evenly: Fry the meatballs, turning them frequently, until evenly browned on all sides.
Step 11 Drain and Serve: Remove the meatballs and drain them on kitchen paper. Serve hot.
Advice
Pair your meatballs with delicious sides like sautéed aubergines or carrots, or opt for a fresh, colorful seasonal salad to add some brightness to your meal.
For those who prefer alternatives to meat, consider trying tuna meatballs. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, aubergine or zucchini meatballs are excellent choices to keep the meal hearty and flavorful.
Storage
Meatballs can be conveniently stored in the refrigerator. Place them in an airtight container, and they will keep well for 1-2 days.
If you’re planning to store them longer and have used fresh ingredients, freezing is a great option.
You can freeze the meatballs for about 1-2 months, ensuring they remain fresh and tasty for later use.
