Meatballs in sauce
Delicious Meatballs Recipe in Tomato Sauce
Total preparation time: 45 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4
Every kitchen hides a story, and meatball recipes are among the most beloved, thanks to their versatility and comforting taste. These meatballs in tomato sauce are a true feast for the taste buds, combining the delicate flavors of chicken with the creaminess of cheese and the savoriness of tomatoes. Perfect for a quick family dinner or to impress guests, these meatballs turn into a memorable and love-filled meal.
Ingredients needed for meatballs:
- 1 chicken breast (approximately 300-400 g)
- 100 g cream cheese (choose one with a fine texture for a creamier taste)
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon semolina
- 2-3 sprigs of fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 sprig of rosemary, finely chopped (or a pinch of dried rosemary)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Oil for frying
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (or tomato puree)
- 400 ml canned tomatoes (or diced tomatoes for a more rustic texture)
Necessary tools:
- Meat grinder or blender
- Large mixing bowl
- Deep frying pan
- Spatula
- Wooden spoon
Step-by-step preparation:
1. Preparing the meat: Start by grinding the chicken breast using a meat grinder or blender. Make sure to achieve a fine texture, but not too minced, to retain juiciness. Chicken breast is an excellent choice as it is lean and healthy.
2. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, add the ground chicken, cream cheese, lightly beaten egg, semolina, parsley, and rosemary. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. Mix all the ingredients well with a spatula or your hands (make sure your hands are wet to avoid sticking). The mixture should become homogeneous and easy to shape.
3. Resting the mixture: Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes. This step is essential to allow the ingredients to blend and make the meatballs easier to shape.
4. Shaping the meatballs: After the mixture has rested, take it out of the refrigerator and form small balls (meatballs) about 2-3 cm in diameter. Make sure to wet your hands between shaping the meatballs to prevent sticking.
5. Preparing the sauce: In a deep frying pan, add a little oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the tomato paste and canned tomatoes, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to intensify the flavors.
6. Cooking the meatballs: Carefully add the meatballs to the hot sauce. Let them simmer on low heat for about 10-15 minutes until fully cooked. In the meantime, you can easily check if they are done by cutting one in half; the meat should be white, without pink areas.
7. Finishing and serving: If necessary, adjust the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Once the meatballs are cooked, serve them alongside boiled rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
Serving suggestions: Garnish with a little chopped fresh parsley and serve with a green salad for an extra touch of freshness. A glass of white wine or fresh lemonade would perfectly complement the meal.
Nutritional information: This recipe provides an excellent source of protein from chicken breast and cheese, while tomatoes contribute antioxidants. One serving contains approximately 350 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It is a good choice for a balanced meal, considering the low fat content and richness in vitamins.
Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use turkey instead of chicken? Yes, turkey is a healthy and equally tasty alternative.
- How can I make the meatballs spicier? Add a little chili pepper or chili flakes to the meat mixture.
- Can I make the meatballs gluten-free? Replace semolina with rice breadcrumbs or a gluten-free alternative.
Possible variations: Instead of rosemary, you can experiment with basil or oregano, and for a more intense flavor, you can add minced garlic. You can also add grated vegetables (carrot, zucchini) to the meatball mixture to make them even healthier.
Enjoy these meatballs in tomato sauce, a simple and delicious recipe that will bring joy to your table! Cooking is an art form, and each recipe is an opportunity to create unforgettable moments with loved ones. Bon appétit!
Ingredients: 1 chicken breast, 100 g cream cheese, salt, pepper, 1 egg, 1 tablespoon semolina, parsley, rosemary, oil, 1 tablespoon broth, 400 ml tomatoes in their own juice
