Bobbi’s Sweet and Sour Meatballs Recipe
Overview:
Bobbi’s Sweet and Sour Meatballs are a delightful addition to any party spread, boasting a unique twist with the inclusion of gingersnaps that infuse a zesty flavor into every bite. Passed down through generations, this recipe has stood the test of time, earning its status as a perennial crowd-pleaser. Paired with fluffy rice and your favorite veggies, it transforms into a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour and 25 minutes
- Servings: Varies
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds ground hamburger
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 eggs
- 5 tomatoes
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 1 cup gingersnap cookies
Instructions:
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Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground hamburger, finely chopped onion, garlic powder, pepper, salt, and eggs. Mix thoroughly by hand until well combined.
- Dampen bread slightly, then wring out excess moisture before adding it to the meat mixture.
- Form small meatballs and place them on a jelly roll pan.
- Bake the meatballs at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until fully cooked.
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Prepare the Sauce:
- While the meatballs are cooking, begin preparing the sauce.
- In a blender, combine tomatoes, brown sugar, vinegar, salt, chopped onion, and gingersnap cookies. Yes, you read that right—include the cookies!
- Puree the ingredients until smooth.
- Pour the sauce into a saucepan and cook over medium heat until it just begins to boil, taking care not to scorch it.
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Combine and Serve:
- Once the sauce has thickened slightly, pour it over the cooked meatballs.
- Optionally, add a can of pineapple chunks to the sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
- Serve the sweet and sour meatballs over rice, accompanied by your favorite vegetables.
Shortcuts and Tips:
- Shortcut: For a time-saving option, you can use frozen meatballs, such as those available at Costco. Simply puree the sauce ingredients and pour them directly over the frozen meatballs in a crockpot. Cook on low heat, and given a couple of hours, the meatballs will thaw and cook while the sauce thickens beautifully.
- Batch Cooking: Consider making a triple or quadruple batch to fill a 6-quart crockpot, making it perfect for large gatherings and potlucks.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 861.3
- Fat: 31.3g
- Saturated Fat: 11.3g
- Cholesterol: 257.9mg
- Sodium: 1411.6mg
- Carbohydrates: 88.8g
- Fiber: 2.5g
- Sugar: 61.2g
- Protein: 54.4g
Serving Suggestions:
- Bobbi’s Sweet and Sour Meatballs are versatile and can be served as an appetizer, main course, or even as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.
- Pair them with steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles for a hearty meal.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for a pop of color and flavor.
Conclusion:
Bobbi’s Sweet and Sour Meatballs are more than just a recipe; they’re a tradition passed down through generations, cherished for their irresistible flavor and simplicity. Whether you’re hosting a party, attending a potluck, or simply craving a comforting meal, these meatballs are sure to hit the spot. Try them once, and they’ll quickly become a staple in your recipe repertoire! 🍽️