Introducing the delectable “Five-Spice Appetizer Meatballs,” a tantalizing dish that effortlessly blends the aromatic allure of five-spice powder with the savory goodness of lean beef, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds. Perfect for any occasion, these appetizer-sized meatballs are not just a prelude but can easily take center stage when served over hot cooked rice or noodles. ๐ฒโจ
Five-Spice Appetizer Meatballs Recipe:
Total Time: 50 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon five-spice powder ๐ถ๏ธ
- 3/4 pounds lean beef ๐ฅฉ
- 1/4 cup honey ๐ฏ
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch ๐ฝ
- 1 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce ๐ฅข
- 3 teaspoons ginger, finely chopped ๐ง
- 4 tablespoons green pepper, diced ๐ซ
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 25.1
- Fat: 0.6g
- Saturated Fat: 0.2g
- Cholesterol: 5.6mg
- Sodium: 40mg
- Carbohydrates: 2.6g
- Fiber: 0.1g
- Sugar: 1.9g
- Protein: 2.2g
Yield: 48 appetizer-size meatballs
Instructions:
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Prepare the Meatball Mix:
- In a large bowl, combine the egg white, breadcrumbs, enchanting five-spice powder, and a pinch of salt. ๐ฅ๐๐ซ
- Add the lean beef to the mixture, ensuring a thorough blend of flavors. Mix until you achieve a harmonious consistency. ๐ฅฉ๐ฟ๐
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Shape and Bake:
- Shape the mixture into 48 delightful 1-inch meatballs, each a tiny treasure waiting to be discovered. ๐จ๐ฒ๐
- Place these savory orbs in a 15″x10″x1″ baking pan, and let them bake in a preheated 350ยฐF oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they exude perfection with no hint of pink at their core. ๐ก๏ธ๐๐ฐ๏ธ
- Drain the meatballs, letting them glisten and beckon with flavor. ๐งโจ
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Create the Irresistible Sauce:
- In a grand saucepan, stir together the enchanting blend of orange juice, golden honey, cornstarch, soy sauce, and the zing of finely chopped ginger. ๐๐ฏ๐ฅข๐ง
- Cook and stir this potion until it achieves the desired thickness and erupts into a symphony of bubbles, a testament to the alchemy of flavors taking place. ๐ฒ๐ถโจ
- Let the sauce dance for an additional 2 minutes, absorbing all the richness. ๐บ๐๐
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Combine and Heat:
- Gently introduce the sweet pepper and the baked meatballs into the saucepan, letting them mingle and absorb the essence of the sauce. ๐ซ๐๐ค
- Cook and stir until this culinary ballet reaches the crescendo of being heated through, ensuring every morsel is embraced by the flavor orchestra. ๐ป๐ฅ๐ฝ๏ธ
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Presentation and Serving:
- Keep this culinary masterpiece warm in a fondue pot or an elegant chafing dish, presenting it as the star of your gathering. ๐ฒ๐ฅ๐
- Serve these delectable meatballs with toothpicks, allowing each bite-sized delight to be savored effortlessly. ๐ก๐ข๐ก
Pro Tips:
- Experiment with serving over hot cooked rice or noodles to transform these appetizers into a main course, elevating your dining experience. ๐๐๐ฝ๏ธ
- Consider adjusting the spice level according to your taste preferences for a personalized culinary journey. ๐ถ๏ธ๐ฉโ๐ณโจ
- The sauce can be prepared ahead of time, allowing for easy assembly and heating of the meatballs when the moment to dazzle arrives. ๐ฐ๏ธ๐ฎ๐ฒ
In conclusion, the “Five-Spice Appetizer Meatballs” recipe is a culinary voyage that blends the mystique of five-spice powder with the heartiness of lean beef, creating a dish that transcends the ordinary and becomes a celebration of flavors. Whether served as appetizers or elevated to the main course, these meatballs promise to be the highlight of any gathering, leaving your guests enchanted and craving for more. ๐๐ฝ๏ธโจ
