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How To Make Meatballs

Meatballs are most often thought of as an Italian dish, but cooks all over the world actually use them in many types of cuisine. Various fried versions are used in dishes from Portugal, Brazil and Denmark. There are over 80 varieties of meatball found in Turkish cuisine, and in some cultures, such as Finland, they actually top them with gravy and serve them with potatoes. Last, but certainly not least, are Swedish meatballs. One recipe uses cream of chicken and cream of mushroom soups baked with the meatballs. Meatballs do not have to prove a daunting dish to make with the right instructions.

Ingredients

One pound lean ground beef 3/4 cup crushed seasoned croutons 1/4 cup yellow onion (or sweet if you prefer) One egg, lightly beaten One tablespoon yellow mustard One teaspoon red pepper flakes Three tablespoons Worcestershire sauce One clove of garlic, chopped One cup grated Parmesan or Romano cheese Extra virgin olive oil

If you prefer a healthier alternative, make sure to use lean ground beef or perhaps even ground chicken or turkey. You can easily find all of these in most grocery stores.

Mixing Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, croutons, onion, egg, yellow mustard, red pepper flakes, Worcestershire sauce, garlic and grated cheese. You can do this with a spatula, bu you can find it easier just to use your hands. Next, you want to shape the mixture into meatballs. You can do this with an ice cream scoop or again by using your hands. Just make sure not to press too hard as doing so produces a heavy, dry, tough meatball.

Time to Cook

Place olive oil in a frying pan (about 1/2 inch deep), and heat over medium low heat. As soon as the oil is hot, place meatballs into pan one at a time, making sure you leave enough space to turn them. Turn them constantly until done (approximately 15 to 20 minutes), then transfer them to a paper towel lined dish to absorb the excess oil. Continue with the rest of your mixture until all of the meatballs are done.

Now you have created a masterpiece that is ready to use in the dish of your choice. Add them to noodles and sauce for a traditional spaghetti and meatballs dish, or choose another culture's cuisine for a great alternative. Either way, this is a dish your entire family can appreciate and ask for again and again.

Cooks all over the world actually use meatballs in many types of cuisine