Asian Pork Balls with Napa Cabbage: A Deliciously Unique Fusion Recipe
If you find yourself enchanted by the harmonious flavors of Asian cuisine, then this recipe for Asian Pork Balls with Napa Cabbage is bound to become a cherished favorite in your culinary repertoire. Featuring the delightful essence of sesame oil and the subtle complexity of sherry, this dish is a wonderful blend of savory and aromatic elements that pairs beautifully with the tender crunch of napa cabbage. Perfect for a family dinner or as a comforting meal on a cozy night, this dish is both satisfying and uncomplicated to prepare, making it a delightful choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
Cooking and Preparation Times
| Time Component | Duration |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 1 hour 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour 35 minutes |
Description
Imagine a plate filled with succulent pork balls, bursting with flavor and nestled among vibrant napa cabbage. This dish not only highlights the tantalizing combination of sesame oil and sherry but also transforms simple ingredients into a delightful culinary experience. By adjusting the recipe to suit a low-carb lifestyle—omitting cornstarch and allowing the sauce to thicken naturally—you can savor the rich flavors without compromising your dietary preferences.
Recipe Category
- Pork
Keywords
- Vegetable
- Meat
- Chinese
- Asian
- Inexpensive
- < 4 Hours
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 471.5 |
| Total Fat | 32.6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12.1 g |
| Cholesterol | 109.1 mg |
| Sodium | 725.1 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 15.1 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.4 g |
| Sugars | 3.7 g |
| Protein | 29 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 | Tablespoons soy sauce |
| 2 | Water chestnuts (diced) |
| 1 | Onion (finely chopped) |
| ½ | Tablespoon ginger (grated) |
| 1 | Cup chicken broth |
| 2 | Tablespoons soy sauce |
| 1 | Tablespoon sherry wine |
| 1 | Head napa cabbage (chopped) |
| 1 | Tablespoon cornstarch (optional) |
| 2 | Tablespoons cold water |
Instructions
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Preparation of Pork Balls: Begin by gathering all the ingredients for the pork balls. In a large mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, diced water chestnuts, finely chopped onion, and grated ginger. Mix these ingredients well until fully integrated, ensuring that the flavors meld together harmoniously. Gradually incorporate ground pork into the mixture, combining it until it becomes a cohesive mixture. Next, form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs, ensuring they are compact enough to hold their shape during cooking.
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Baking the Pork Balls: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and arrange the pork balls on the sheet, leaving enough space between each ball to allow for even cooking. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until the pork balls are cooked through and golden brown on the outside.
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Simmering in Broth: While the pork balls are baking, take a large pot or Dutch oven and add 1 cup of chicken broth along with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of sherry. Once the pork balls have finished baking, carefully transfer them into the pot, along with any drippings from the baking sheet for added flavor. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20 minutes. This step allows the pork balls to absorb the rich flavors from the broth, enhancing their overall taste.
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Incorporating Napa Cabbage: After the initial simmering time, add the chopped napa cabbage to the pot. Cover it once more and continue to simmer for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the cabbage to wilt and absorb the flavors from the broth.
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Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, dissolve the cornstarch in the cold water to create a slurry. Once the napa cabbage is tender and the pork balls are fully cooked, remove both from the pot and arrange them on a serving platter. Stir the cornstarch mixture into the remaining broth in the pot, bringing it back to a boil while continuously stirring until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
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Serving: Once thickened, pour the savory sauce over the pork balls and napa cabbage. This beautiful presentation not only looks appealing but also adds an extra layer of flavor to the dish. Serve hot, and enjoy this delightful combination that is sure to impress your family and friends.
This recipe for Asian Pork Balls with Napa Cabbage is a simple yet elegant dish that showcases the delightful fusion of flavors that characterize Asian cuisine. With its enticing aroma and satisfying taste, this dish is perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. Enjoy the burst of flavors as you take each bite, and relish the joy of bringing this culinary masterpiece to your table!
