Meatballs with Pineapple Recipe
Overview:
This delightful recipe for Meatballs with Pineapple combines savory meatballs with the sweetness of pineapple, creating a tropical fusion that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Inspired by a family recipe, it’s ideal for serving over rice or egg noodles, making it a versatile option for dinner any day of the week.
Ingredients:
-
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2/3 lb ground pork
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
-
For the Sauce:
- 1 can (about 8 oz) pineapple chunks in juice
- 1 carrot, sliced
- 1 celery stalk, sliced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp cider vinegar
- 1/4 tsp ginger powder
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (to thicken)
-
Additional:
- 1 green pepper, chopped
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 352.7
- Total Fat: 18.8g
- Saturated Fat: 7.1g
- Cholesterol: 130.1mg
- Sodium: 1446.8mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20.3g
- Dietary Fiber: 2.6g
- Sugars: 12.3g
- Protein: 25.5g
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, Worcestershire sauce, egg, garlic powder, and salt. Mix until well-combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, about 36 in total, each about 1 inch in diameter.
-
Cook the Meatballs:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a bit of oil.
- Brown the meatballs on all sides in batches, ensuring they are evenly cooked. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
-
Prepare the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the pineapple chunks (including the juice), sliced carrot, sliced celery, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, cider vinegar, and ginger powder. Stir to combine.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a bit of water to create a slurry. Add this to the skillet, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
-
Simmer and Finish:
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for about 7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Add the chopped green pepper and continue to cook, uncovered, for an additional 6 minutes or until the meatballs are fully cooked and the vegetables are tender to your liking.
-
Serve:
- Serve the meatballs and pineapple sauce over cooked rice or egg noodles, ensuring to spoon some of the flavorful sauce over each serving.
-
Enjoy!:
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy this delicious dish hot, savoring the blend of savory meatballs with the sweet tang of pineapple and the depth of the savory sauce.
This recipe not only satisfies with its hearty flavors but also provides a balanced meal with protein, vegetables, and a touch of tropical sweetness. It’s a family-friendly dish that can quickly become a favorite, just as it has been for generations in many homes. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave a taste of something comforting yet exotic!