Meatballs with Mortadella and Pistachios
Category: Appetizers
Serves: 22 pieces
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Veal (ground) | 400g |
| Mortadella | 100g |
| Pistachios | 30g |
| Breadcrumbs | 50g |
| Grana Padano DOP (cheese) | 50g |
| Egg | 1 |
| Water | 2 tbsp |
| Parsley (fresh, chopped) | 1 tbsp |
| Garlic (clove, minced) | 1 |
| Salt | 2 pinches |
| Black Pepper | to taste |
| Peanut Oil (for frying) | as needed |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Mortadella: Begin by cutting the mortadella into small cubes. Transfer these cubes into a food processor and blend until finely chopped. This will serve as a flavorful addition to your veal mixture.
-
-
Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground veal and the finely chopped mortadella. Add the grated Grana Padano DOP cheese, parsley, and minced garlic. Crack the egg into the mixture and season with salt and black pepper. Add in the pistachios (leave them whole to maintain a bit of texture and crunch).
-
Add Moisture: To help bind the mixture together and achieve the right consistency, add water little by little, mixing gently with a spoon. Once everything is combined, use your hands to knead the mixture until it becomes smooth.
-
Form the Meatballs: With your hands, shape the veal mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs. Roll them in the breadcrumbs to coat each one lightly.
-
Fry the Meatballs: Heat a generous amount of peanut oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully fry the meatballs in batches, turning them occasionally to ensure even cooking. Fry for a few minutes until they are golden brown and fully cooked through.
-
Serve: Once fried, transfer the meatballs to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve them warm or at room temperature, as they taste delicious either way!
Notes:
These meatballs are a delightful combination of tender veal, rich mortadella, and crunchy pistachios, creating a unique appetizer that will impress any crowd. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a savory snack! The addition of Grana Padano cheese and fresh parsley enhances the flavors, making these meatballs both savory and aromatic.
Enjoy them as a stand-alone appetizer or serve with a tangy dipping sauce for extra flavor!
