Savory Spanish Meatball Delight

Home-Style Meatballs (Albondigas Caseras)

Cook Time: 45 minutes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Rating: ★★★★★ (3 Reviews)
Calories: 3702.5
Fat Content: 268.9g
Saturated Fat Content: 97g
Cholesterol Content: 1159.1mg
Sodium Content: 6523.8mg
Carbohydrate Content: 88.8g
Fiber Content: 9.6g
Sugar Content: 17.5g
Protein Content: 200.2g
Recipe Category: Meat
Keywords: Spanish, European, Weeknight, < 4 Hours

Description:
The term “tapa” in Spanish translates to top or cover, reflecting its historical association with small plates covering drinks in the bars of Spain. With one bar for every 120 persons, these establishments, often family-run, offer an array of beverages from coffee to soft drinks and liquor. In the past, tapas were tiny and often complimentary, served on small dishes acting as covers over drinks. While the dishes have evolved to be larger and more elaborate today, they still capture the essence of Spanish cuisine. This recipe celebrates the essence of Spanish tapas with a home-style twist, featuring delectable meatballs that are perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 pound beef
• 1 pound pork
• 1/2 cup garlic cloves, minced
• 3/4 cup bread crumbs
• 5 eggs
• 2 teaspoons nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons pepper
• Flour for dusting
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 green pepper, diced
• 3 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup dry white wine
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine the Meats and Aromatics: In a large mixing bowl, blend together the beef, pork, garlic cloves, bread crumbs, 4 minced garlic cloves, eggs, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Ensure the mixture is well combined, forming the base for flavorful meatballs.

2. Shape and Dust: Form the mixture into cocktail-size meatballs, creating bite-sized delights bursting with flavor. Once shaped, dust the meatballs with flour, adding a light coating that will enhance the texture upon cooking.

3. Sauté to Perfection: In a casserole, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the meatballs until they achieve a delightful golden-brown crust on all sides, ensuring a perfect blend of textures in every bite.

4. Infuse Aromatics: Introduce the finely chopped onion, the remaining minced garlic clove, and diced green pepper to the casserole. Allow them to cook until the onion achieves a beautiful wilted consistency, releasing its aromatic essence into the dish.

5. Add the Signature Elements: Incorporate the chopped tomatoes, dry white wine, chicken broth, salt, and pepper to the casserole. These signature elements bring a symphony of flavors, creating a rich and savory broth that envelops the meatballs.

6. Simmer to Excellence: Cover the casserole and let the magic happen. Simmer the concoction for a tantalizing 45 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify, creating a harmonious blend that will elevate your taste buds to new heights.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 3702.5
• Fat: 268.9g
  • Saturated Fat: 97g
• Cholesterol: 1159.1mg
• Sodium: 6523.8mg
• Carbohydrates: 88.8g
  • Fiber: 9.6g
  • Sugar: 17.5g
• Protein: 200.2g

Cooking Times:

In essence, these Home-Style Meatballs capture the heart of Spanish tapas, bringing the warmth of family kitchens to your table. The blend of beef and pork, infused with aromatic garlic, nutmeg, and the richness of wine, creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Serve these meatballs as a standalone delight or alongside your favorite accompaniments, and transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Spain. Whether enjoyed as a weeknight indulgence or a centerpiece for a European-themed feast, these meatballs are a culinary journey worth savoring.