Ingredients
Scale
To create these mouthwatering sweet and sour meatballs, you will need the following ingredients. These components work harmoniously to deliver a meal that is not only delicious but also satisfying:
- 1 lb ground turkey or chicken: Provides a lean protein base for the meatballs.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Adds texture and helps bind the meatballs together.
- 1/4 cup chopped onion: Enhances flavor with its savory depth.
- 1 egg: Acts as a binder to hold the meatballs together.
- 1/4 cup ketchup: Adds a sweet and tangy tomato base to the sauce.
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar: Provides a tangy zest that balances the sweetness.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Sweetens the sauce while giving it a rich molasses flavor.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: Introduces a savory, umami element to the sauce.
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned): Contributes sweetness and a tropical twist.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances the overall flavor.
- Cooking oil: Used for browning the meatballs.
Instructions
Creating sweet and sour meatballs is a straightforward process that even novice cooks can follow. Here’s how to prepare this delightful dish:
- Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey or chicken, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, salt, and pepper.
- Mix the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into small, evenly-sized meatballs using your hands or a small scoop.
- Cook the Meatballs:
- Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Carefully add the meatballs to the pan, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Cook the meatballs until they are browned on all sides, turning them gently with a spatula or tongs.
- Once browned, remove the meatballs from the pan and set them aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In the same pan, combine the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and soy sauce.
- Stir the ingredients together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Combine Meatballs and Sauce:
- Return the browned meatballs to the pan with the simmering sauce.
- Add the pineapple chunks, distributing them evenly among the meatballs.
- Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce thickens.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the meatballs are fully cooked and the sauce has reached your desired consistency, remove the pan from heat.
- Serve the sweet and sour meatballs warm, accompanied by your choice of side dishes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: one normal portion
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g