Description
Sweet and Sour Meatballs are a delicious and flavorful dish that combines tender, savory meatballs with a tangy, sweet sauce made from pineapple, vinegar, sugar, and ketchup. This fusion of Asian and Western flavors makes it a perfect choice for family dinners, parties, or even as a quick and easy weeknight meal. The dish can be served over rice, noodles, or even as a standalone appetizer. Its versatility and vibrant flavors make it a favorite for all occasions.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 3 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
Instructions
Prepare the Meatballs:
In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until well combined.
Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
Cook the Meatballs:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of oil. Cook the meatballs in batches until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Remove and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, combine the pineapple juice, brown sugar, vinegar, ketchup, and soy sauce. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
Add the cornstarch slurry to the sauce, stirring constantly until it thickens.
Combine and Serve:
Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce, ensuring they are well coated. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Serve the sweet and sour meatballs over rice or noodles, garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
- Meat Choices: You can use ground pork, beef, chicken, or turkey for the meatballs. If you’re looking for a lighter version, ground chicken or turkey works well.
- Vegetarian Option: For a meatless version, try plant-based meat substitutes. You can also use ingredients like lentils or chickpeas as the base for the meatballs.
- Balancing Flavors: Adjust the sweetness and sourness of the sauce to suit your taste. More sugar or pineapple juice will increase the sweetness, while additional vinegar will enhance the tanginess.
- Texture: Frying the meatballs gives them a crispy exterior, while baking is a healthier option that still keeps them moist. Slow cooking allows the meatballs to absorb more flavor from the sauce.
- Make-Ahead: The meatballs and sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer. Reheat them gently to preserve their texture and flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the meatballs with steamed rice, noodles, or alongside stir-fried vegetables. They also work well as an appetizer when served with toothpicks.
- Spice It Up: Add some heat to the dish by including chili flakes or hot sauce in the sauce for a spicy variation.