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Hawaiian Meatballs

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Hawaiian Meatballs are a sweet, tangy, and savory dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with tender meatballs coated in a luscious pineapple-infused sauce, this dish is bursting with tropical flavor. The combination of juicy pineapple, savory meat, and a hint of soy sauce creates a delightful balance that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or pork/chicken/turkey)
  • 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying, if pan-searing)

For the Hawaiian Sauce:

  • 1 cup pineapple juice (from a can of pineapple chunks)
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks
  • 1/2 cup red and green bell peppers, diced (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
  • 2 tablespoons green onions, sliced (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Ground Meat: Customize the recipe with your choice of ground beef, pork, chicken, or turkey. Each offers a unique flavor.
  • Pineapple Juice: The base of the Hawaiian sauce, it gives the dish its signature tropical flavor.
  • Soy Sauce: Adds a savory, umami depth that balances the sweetness of the pineapple and brown sugar.
  • Bell Peppers: Optional, but they add vibrant color and a slight crunch to the dish.

Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs:

  1. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  2. Shape the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into bite-sized balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
  3. Cook the Meatballs:
    • Pan-Frying Method: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through.
    • Baking Method: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until fully cooked.

Make the Hawaiian Sauce:

  1. Prepare the Sauce Base: In a medium saucepan or skillet, combine the pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, ketchup, and vinegar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
  2. Thicken the Sauce: Stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) and continue to cook until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Add Pineapple and Peppers: Stir in the pineapple chunks and diced bell peppers (if using). Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to soften the peppers slightly.

Combine and Serve:

  1. Coat the Meatballs: Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and toss to coat them evenly. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
  2. Garnish and Serve: Transfer to a serving dish, sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions (if desired), and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://herbites.com/hawaiian-meatballs/