If you thought eating meatballs while trying to maintain a healthy diet was out of the question, then think again. Most supermarkets carry organic lean beef with fat levels as low as four percent, and if you are not a fan of beef, try using ground turkey, chicken or even soy. Meatballs can be used to top spaghetti, in a sandwich, or even eaten on their own with a little parmesan cheese. Making meatballs is really very simple, as long as you prepare everything in advance. Below is the meatball recipe I have created on my own, but feel free to alter it depending on your taste.
Preparation
Meat
If you put your ground meat in the freezer make sure you defrost it thoroughly in the refrigerator; if the meat is still slightly frozen when it comes time for you to make the meatballs, place the meat (in its packaging) in the microwave and use the defrost option. Do not overcook; only thaw the meat enough to be able to touch it without getting freezer burn.
Seasonings
Sprinkle the following seasonings together in a large bowl: salt or reduce sodium salt, ground black pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder.
Egg
If you are making approximately 500 grams of meat, then one whole egg should suffice. Crack the egg and place in the bowl with the seasonings.
Breadcrumbs
You can use fresh or dried breadcrumbs however, if you are watching your carbohydrate intake you can omit the breadcrumbs all together or try using wholegrain breadcrumbs instead.
Sauce
Select the spaghetti sauce of your choice – or make your own – and pour it into a medium sized pot. Turn the heat to low and let the sauce simmer until the meatballs are ready to be thrown in.
Cleanliness
Making meatballs can be messy but you can keep your kitchen clean and free of food born diseases by filling a small bowl with soap and water, and placing a few sheets of paper towels near your kitchen work area.
When you are done making the meatballs simply dip your hands in the bowl then dry them with the paper towels. That way your dirty hands won’t have to touch your faucet and soap dispenser, and it makes cleaning up much easier.
Cooking
Place a large pan on the stove and turn the heat to medium.
Coat the pan with non-stick cooking spray.
Combine all of the ingredients in the large bowl thoroughly, and form several small balls using your hands.
Place the meatballs in the pan and cook for several minutes before turning over. Cook for another few minutes but do not cook the meat all the way through.
Place the meatballs in the pot of sauce and simmer on low for five minutes; the beef will be tender, flavorful and fully cooked.
Serve and enjoy!
