Sweet and Sour Meatballs

Below are the ingredients you’ll need to make sweet and sour meatballs:

• For the Meatballs:
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 cup dry bread crumbs
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 large egg
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch

Directions

Follow these steps to create your sweet and sour meatballs:

• Step 1: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, chopped onion, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
• Step 2: Form the mixture into 1½-inch balls and place them on a tray.
• Step 3: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and cook the meatballs in batches, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
• Step 4: In a bowl, whisk together brown sugar, water, ketchup, vinegar, soy sauce, and cornstarch until smooth.
• Step 5: Pour the sauce into the skillet with the meatballs. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens and coats the meatballs evenly.
• Step 6: Serve warm over rice or noodles, or enjoy as an appetizer. Optionally, garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of meat for the meatballs?

Yes! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a healthier alternative to beef.

2. How can I make the sauce spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for extra heat.

3. Can I prepare the meatballs in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook.

4. What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.

5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs and ensure all sauce ingredients are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Sweet and sour meatballs are a delightful meal that is easy to prepare and fun to eat. The balance of flavors will tantalize your taste buds, and with simple ingredients and steps, you can whip up a crowd-pleaser in no time. Whether served as a hearty dish over rice or as savory appetizers at your next gathering, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of home-cooked goodness with this sweet and sour recipe, and watch your family and friends come back for seconds!