Sweet Sour Meatballs are a delightful combination of flavors that brings together savory, sweet, and tangy elements in one delicious dish. This recipe features turkey meatballs enveloped in a homemade sauce made from pineapple, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. It’s not only easy to prepare but also perfect for various occasions, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a comforting meal. Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering dish!
Why You’ll Love This Sweet Sour Meatballs
This recipe for Sweet Sour Meatballs offers several enticing benefits. First, it combines the richness of savory-sweet meatballs with the delightful tang of pineapple, making each bite a flavor explosion. Second, it’s a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer or a main course, catering to various dining needs. Third, the recipe is incredibly easy to follow, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Fourth, it fits well within a gluten-free diet, ensuring that everyone can enjoy it. Fifth, the use of low-sodium soy sauce allows you to manage salt intake while still enjoying the umami flavors. Lastly, Sweet Sour Meatballs can be made in under 30 minutes, perfect for quick meals. With these reasons, it’s clear why this dish has become a favorite among many!
Ingredients for Sweet Sour Meatballs
Gather these items:
- 20 ounces Pineapple chunks (juice reserved)
- 3 tablespoons Rice vinegar
- 3 tablespoons Low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Packed light brown sugar
- 1/3 cup Water
- 3 tablespoons Cornstarch
- 30 Fully cooked meatballs (Your favorite recipe or frozen)
- 1 Large green pepper, seeded and membranes removed (cut into 1-inch pieces)
- Garnishes: thinly sliced green onions, sesame seeds
How to Make Sweet Sour Meatballs Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Drain pineapple and set aside, reserving the juice. Whisk together 1/3 cup water and 3 tablespoons cornstarch in a small bowl and set aside.
- Step 2: Add water to the pineapple juice if needed to measure 1 cup, then pour into a large sauté pan or skillet over medium heat. Add rice vinegar, soy sauce, and brown sugar to the pineapple juice and stir until smooth.
- Step 3: Bring to a simmer, then add the cornstarch mixture to the skillet.
- Step 4: Cook over medium heat until thick, stirring constantly. Add the pineapple, meatballs, and green pepper.
- Step 5: Simmer, uncovered, until heated through; about 20 minutes.
- Step 6: Garnish with thinly sliced green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Pro Tips for the Best Sweet Sour Meatballs
Keep these in mind:
- Use fresh ingredients like ripe pineapple and fresh bell peppers for the best flavor.
- For a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer after adding the cornstarch.
- Consider adding a dash of chili flakes for a spicy kick, making them tangy meatballs.
- This method is stovetop, making it quick and convenient for any home cook.
Best Ways to Serve Sweet Sour Meatballs
Here are a few serving ideas:
- Serve the Sweet Sour Meatballs over a bed of rice for a complete meal.
- They can also be served as appetizers at parties, perfect for finger foods.
- Pair them with steamed vegetables for a colorful and nutritious side.
How to Store and Reheat Sweet Sour Meatballs
To store your Sweet Sour Meatballs, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, which makes them perfect for meal prep.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sweet Sour Meatballs
What’s the secret to perfect Sweet Sour Meatballs?
The secret lies in balancing the flavors of the sauce. Achieving that sweet and tangy combination is essential, so make sure to taste as you go!
Can I make Sweet Sour Meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately and combine when ready to serve.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Sweet Sour Meatballs?
Common mistakes include not letting the sauce simmer long enough or using low-quality meatballs. Ensure you allow enough time for flavors to develop!
Variations of Sweet Sour Meatballs You Can Try
Here are some delicious variations:
- For a tropical twist, add diced mango along with the pineapple.
- Try using chicken meatballs for a lighter option, fitting into gluten-free diets.
- Make them in a slow cooker for an easy, hands-off approach, perfect for parties.
- Consider adding a sweet and tangy glaze to elevate the flavors even more.
For more delicious recipes, check out Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil or Homemade Tomato Sauce. If you’re interested in appetizers, you might also enjoy our appetizers section.
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Sweet Sour Meatballs: 5 Reasons to Love This Tangy Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Sweet and Sour Turkey Meatballs with pineapple and bell peppers, coated in a homemade sweet and tangy sauce.
Ingredients
- 20 ounces Pineapple chunks (juice reserved)
- 3 tablespoons Rice vinegar
- 3 tablespoons Low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Packed light brown sugar
- 1/3 cup Water
- 3 tablespoons Cornstarch
- 30 Fully cooked meatballs (Your favorite recipe or frozen)
- 1 Large green pepper, seeded and membranes removed (cut into 1-inch pieces)
- Garnishes: thinly sliced green onions, sesame seeds
Instructions
- Drain pineapple and set aside, reserving the juice. Whisk together 1/3 cup water and 3 tablespoons cornstarch in a small bowl and set aside.
- Add water to the pineapple juice if needed to measure 1 cup, then pour into a large saute pan or skillet over medium heat. Add rice vinegar, soy sauce and brown sugar to the pineapple juice and stir until smooth.
- Bring to a simmer, then add the cornstarch mixture to the skillet.
- Cook over medium heat until thick, stirring constantly. Add the pineapple, meatballs and green pepper.
- Simmer, uncovered, until heated through; about 20 minutes.
- Garnish with thinly sliced green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Notes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer/Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 237
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 21 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
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