Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Meatballs
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, finely chopped onion, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overwork the mixture! Shape it into 1 1/2-inch meatballs and place them on a plate.Cook the Meatballs
Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in a single layer. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re brown all over and fully cooked. If there’s excess grease, drain it off.Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together brown sugar, water, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and cornstarch until smooth. Pour this sauce over the cooked meatballs in the skillet.Simmer and Thicken
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer, stirring gently for about 3-5 minutes, until it thickens and coats the meatballs beautifully.Serve
Serve the sweet and sour meatballs hot over a bed of rice or noodles, or as a delightful party appetizer. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
The beauty of sweet and sour meatballs lies in their versatility. Serve them on fluffy steamed rice or noodles for a hearty meal. Alternatively, they make fantastic appetizers; just stick toothpicks in them for easy grabbing at gatherings. Pair with a fresh salad or some steamed vegetables for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the meatballs.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To store your sweet and sour meatballs, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or extra sauce to keep them from drying out.
Pro Chef Tips
- For added flavor, consider mixing in some garlic powder or fresh herbs like parsley into the meatball mixture.
- If you’re a fan of spice, a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes can elevate the sweet and tangy sauce.
- If the sauce isn’t as thick as you’d like, dissolve an extra tablespoon of cornstarch in a bit of cold water and stir it in while it’s simmering.
Creative Twists
While this recipe is delicious as is, there’s room for creativity. Substitute ground beef with ground pork or turkey for different flavor profiles. You can also try adding pineapple chunks to the sauce for a fruity twist. For a healthier option, use cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice for serving.
FAQs
What is the prep time for sweet and sour meatballs?
Preparation takes about 15 minutes, with cooking time adding an additional 10-12 minutes, making it a quick meal option ready in around 30 minutes.
Can I freeze sweet and sour meatballs?
Yes! They freeze well. Just store them in a sealed container or freezer bag to keep them fresh for up to three months.
What can I use if I don’t have cornstarch?
If you don’t have cornstarch on hand, you can substitute it with flour, but keep in mind the thickness might differ slightly.
With this recipe, you’ll have a delightful dish that hits the spot every time. Whether you’re making a cozy family dinner or impressing guests, sweet and sour meatballs are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
