Why Make This Recipe
Sweet and sour meatballs are a delightful dish that combines savory flavors with a tangy sauce. This recipe is not only simple to make but also perfect for family dinners, parties, or casual gatherings. If you want to impress your guests or simply enjoy a tasty meal at home, these meatballs are a great choice!
How to Make Sweet and Sour Meatballs
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup dry bread crumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, chopped onion, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Form the mixture into 1.5-inch balls and place them on a tray.
- Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and cook the meatballs in batches, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
- In a bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, water, ketchup, vinegar, soy sauce, and cornstarch until smooth.
- Pour the sauce into the skillet with the meatballs. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the meatballs evenly.
- Serve warm over rice or noodles, or enjoy as an appetizer. Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds.
How to Serve Sweet and Sour Meatballs
Sweet and sour meatballs can be served in many ways. They are delicious over a bed of rice or noodles. You can also serve them as an appetizer at parties, toothpicks included for easy eating. They pair well with a fresh salad or vegetable sides too.
How to Store Sweet and Sour Meatballs
To store leftovers, let the meatballs cool to room temperature. Then, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just thaw before reheating.
Tips to Make Sweet and Sour Meatballs
- Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- Don’t overmix the meatball mixture; keep it gentle to ensure tender meatballs.
- Adjust the sweetness or sourness of the sauce by changing the amount of sugar or vinegar to suit your taste.
Variation
You can easily change this recipe by adding different ingredients. Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version. You can also add diced bell peppers or pineapple chunks for extra sweetness and texture.
FAQs
Can I make sweet and sour meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance. Just keep them separate and combine before serving.
Can I cook these meatballs in the oven?
Yes, you can bake the meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes instead of frying them.
What can I serve with sweet and sour meatballs?
They are great with rice, noodles, or even on a bed of steamed vegetables. Enjoy them with a side of your favorite dipping sauce!
