Introduction
If you’re in search of a delectable and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, these turkey meatballs in a flavorful sauce are a fantastic choice. Juicy, tender, and infused with a unique blend of spices and sauces, they can be served over rice or noodles, making a satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Meatballs:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 egg, beaten
– ½ cup panko breadcrumbs or regular breadcrumbs
– 1 teaspoon pepper paste or gochujang paste (use mild if you prefer less spice)
– 1 teaspoon ginger powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce:
– ⅓ cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
– 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
– 1 teaspoon pepper paste or gochujang paste
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
For Garnish (optional):
– 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
– 2 green onions, chopped
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes
Yield
Serves approximately 4 people
Directions
1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a medium bowl, combine ground turkey, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, pepper paste, ginger powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined. Shape the mixture into meatballs, each about 1 tablespoon in size. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix together chicken broth, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, and pepper paste until well combined.
3. Cook the Meatballs: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides.
4. Simmer in Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the browned meatballs in the skillet. Reduce the heat and let them cook for 10 minutes. To thicken the sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water. Add this mixture to the skillet during the last 5 minutes of cooking, stirring to combine.
5. Serve: Once the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened, remove from heat. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Meatballs:
In a medium bowl, combine ground turkey, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, pepper paste, ginger powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined. Shape the mixture into meatballs, each about 1 tablespoon in size. Set aside.
Prepare the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, mix together chicken broth, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, and pepper paste until well combined.
Cook the Meatballs:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides.
Simmer in Sauce:
Pour the prepared sauce over the browned meatballs in the skillet. Reduce the heat and let them cook for 10 minutes. To thicken the sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water. Add this mixture to the skillet during the last 5 minutes of cooking, stirring to combine.
Serve:
Once the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened, remove from heat. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Notes
Ground Turkey:
You can substitute ground chicken or beef if preferred.
Breadcrumbs:
Panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter texture, but regular breadcrumbs work just as well.
Spice Level:
Adjust the amount of pepper paste or gochujang to control the heat according to your preference.
Storage:
Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing:
Cooked meatballs can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Cook Techniques
Mixing Ingredients
Thoroughly combine ground turkey, egg, breadcrumbs, and spices in a bowl to ensure even distribution of flavors.
Shaping Meatballs
Form the mixture into uniform meatballs, approximately one tablespoon in size, for consistent cooking.
Browning Meatballs
Cook meatballs in a skillet over medium-high heat until they are browned on all sides, enhancing their flavor and texture.
Simmering in Sauce
After browning, pour the sauce over the meatballs and let them simmer to absorb the flavors and stay moist.
Thickening Sauce
To thicken the sauce, incorporate a cornstarch and water mixture during the last stages of cooking, stirring until smooth.
Garnishing
Add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving for added texture and flavor.
FAQ
Can I substitute ground turkey with another meat?
Yes, you can use ground beef, chicken, or pork according to your preference.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
You can substitute ground turkey with a plant-based meat alternative or mashed beans and adjust the binding ingredients accordingly.
How can I adjust the spice level?
Choose a milder gochujang or reduce the amount used in the meatball mixture and sauce.
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them before cooking. They can also be frozen for later use.
What can I serve with these meatballs?
These meatballs pair well with steamed rice, noodles, or even in a sub sandwich.
Conclusion
The turkey meatballs with a flavorful sauce are a delightful dish that balances taste and texture beautifully. The combination of ground turkey and spices creates a delicious meatball, while the sauce adds a savory sweetness with a hint of tang. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also versatile, making it a great choice for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Asian-Inspired Chicken Stir-Fry
Combine diced chicken breast with a similar sauce as the meatballs. Add vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli and serve over rice.
Spicy Veggie Meatballs
Use a mix of grated zucchini, carrots, and beans to replace the turkey, following the same meatball-making process for a vegetarian option.
Sweet and Sour Meatballs
Incorporate pineapple chunks in the sauce and use a combination of ketchup and vinegar for a sweet and sour twist.
Turkey and Rice Casserole
Mix the cooked meatballs with cooked rice and the sauce, then bake with cheese for a delicious casserole.
Meatball Subs
Serve the meatballs in a toasted sub roll, topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese for a comforting sandwich option.
