Tangy Sweet and Sour Meatballs

Here’s a recipe for tangy sweet and sour meatballs. These delicious meatballs are perfect for an appetizer or main dish, served with rice or noodles.

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef or pork (or a mix)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp oil (for frying)

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/3 cup ketchup
• 1/3 cup rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
• 1 bell pepper, chopped (optional)
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (optional)
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions (optional)

Instructions:

Making the Meatballs:

1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Shape the Meatballs: Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
3. Cook the Meatballs: Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until they are browned on all sides and cooked through, about 10-15 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.

Making the Sauce:

4. Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the pineapple juice, brown sugar, ketchup, rice vinegar, and soy sauce. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Thicken the Sauce: Add the cornstarch mixture to the skillet and stir until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Add Vegetables and Pineapple (Optional): If using, add the chopped bell pepper and pineapple chunks to the sauce. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
7. Combine Meatballs and Sauce: Return the meatballs to the skillet and toss to coat them in the sauce. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving:

8. Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions if desired. Serve the meatballs over steamed rice or noodles.

Enjoy your tangy sweet and sour meatballs!