Meatballs in tomato sauce
Delicious meatballs in tomato sauce - a simple and comforting recipe
Total preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4
Who doesn't love meatballs? These little meat delights are not only a savory dish but also a beloved part of many family meals, bringing a sense of warmth and conviviality. Today, I will share a recipe for meatballs in tomato sauce, a perfect combination that will turn any meal into a special occasion. Let's embark together on the preparation of this flavorful dish!
Necessary ingredients
For the meatballs:
- 750 g ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for a richer taste)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 egg (to bind the ingredients)
- 1 large onion, grated (I recommend using white onion for a sweeter taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Breadcrumbs (about 100 g for the perfect texture)
For the sauce:
- 1 kg fresh tomatoes (you can also use canned tomatoes, but fresh ones offer a more vibrant taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for a more intense flavor, use extra virgin olive oil)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (for an extra flavor boost)
- 1 head of garlic, finely chopped (or to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparing the meatballs
1. Start by grating the onion. It is important to drain it well so that the meatballs do not become too wet. You can use a kitchen towel to absorb the excess liquid.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat with the drained onion, chopped parsley, egg, salt, pepper, and breadcrumbs. Mix well with your hands until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. This is where you can also add other spices, such as sweet paprika or herbs, for an extra flavor.
3. Form small balls from the meat mixture, ensuring they are uniform so they cook evenly. Weigh them to ensure they are approximately the same size.
4. Roll each ball in flour, making sure it is evenly coated. This step helps to achieve a crispy crust when frying.
5. In a deep skillet, heat a little olive oil. When the oil is well heated, add the meatballs and fry them on all sides until golden and crispy. You can use a spatula to easily turn them over.
6. Once fried, remove the meatballs to a plate covered with a paper towel to absorb the excess oil.
Preparing the tomato sauce
1. Wash the tomatoes and cut them in half. Remove the seeds (you can use them to add to salads or other dishes) and grate them, discarding the skin. This step will create a fine and delicious sauce.
2. In the same skillet where you fried the meatballs, add the oil and chopped garlic. Sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes until golden, being careful not to burn it, or it will become bitter.
3. Add the grated tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, and pepper to taste. Simmer the sauce over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the water from the tomatoes evaporates and the sauce becomes thicker (about 10-15 minutes).
4. After the sauce reaches the desired consistency, add the fried meatballs to the skillet and let them simmer together with the sauce for 2-3 minutes, so the flavors combine perfectly.
Serving and suggestions
The meatballs in tomato sauce can be served with a generous portion of rice, which will absorb the delicious sauce. A fresh vegetable salad will perfectly complement the meal, providing a crunchy and healthy contrast.
Variations and tips
- If you want to experiment, you can add crumbled feta cheese to the meat mixture for a more intense flavor.
- Instead of rice, you can serve the meatballs with pasta or mashed potatoes, depending on your preferences.
- For a spicier sauce, add a bit of chopped chili pepper or chili flakes.
Nutritional information
A serving of meatballs in tomato sauce contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of oil used and the side dish. These meatballs are rich in protein due to the meat, and tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C and antioxidants.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, chicken is a good alternative, but make sure to season it well to achieve the desired flavors.
2. What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
You can use crushed croutons or oats to achieve a similar texture.
3. How can I store leftovers?
The meatballs can be kept in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days or can be frozen for later use.
4. What drinks can be paired with this dish?
A dry red wine or a fresh lemonade will perfectly complement this dish.
In conclusion, meatballs in tomato sauce are an excellent choice for a comforting dinner, easy to prepare and full of flavor. Experiment with the ingredients and adapt the recipe to your preferences, and the result will always be delicious. Bon appétit!
Ingredients: 750 g ground beef, 1 bunch of parsley, 1 egg, 1 large onion, salt, pepper, breadcrumbs, for sauce: 1 kg tomatoes, 2 tablespoons oil, 1 tablespoon tomato paste, 1 head of garlic, salt, pepper
