How to make meatballs from mince

Meatballs are a delicious and versatile dish that can be served in many different ways. They are easy to make, and you can use a variety of ingredients to create different flavor profiles. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make meatballs from mince:

Ingredients:

• 500g mince meat (beef, pork or lamb)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. In a large bowl, combine the mince, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley (if using). Mix everything together until well combined. You can use your hands to mix, but be sure not to overwork the meat, as this can make the meatballs tough.

3. Once the mixture is well combined, take a small amount of the mixture (about 1 tablespoon) and roll it into a ball between the palms of your hands. Repeat with the remaining mixture until all the meat has been used.

4. Place the meatballs onto a baking tray lined with baking paper, leaving a little space between each ball to allow for even cooking.

5. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through. You can check if they’re cooked by cutting one in half and making sure there’s no pink meat inside.

6. Once the meatballs are cooked, you can serve them hot with your favorite sauce, pasta, or vegetables. Alternatively, you can let them cool and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze them for up to three months.

Tips:

• If you don’t have breadcrumbs, you can use rolled oats or crushed crackers instead.
• You can use different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of your meatballs. Try adding some chili flakes, paprika, or cumin for a spicy kick.
• If the mixture is too wet, add more breadcrumbs until it becomes more manageable.
• If the mixture is too dry, add more milk or a little bit of water until it becomes more pliable.

Author: Sandra Mapfumo