Imagine sinking your teeth into succulent, flavorful meatballs that melt in your mouth, all while the tangy essence of green olives dances on your palate. Welcome to the world of "Braised Meatballs with Green Olives," a Spanish-inspired dish that promises to elevate your dinner table. This delightful recipe not only brings a burst of Mediterranean flavor but also offers a comforting, home-cooked experience that's perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Ready to impress your taste buds and your loved ones? Let’s dive into this culinary adventure that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Cuisine: Spanish
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 egg
- 1 jar green olives, pitted
- 1 can tomato sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, minced garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly with your hands until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Shape the meat mixture into uniform meatballs, approximately
- 5 inches in diameter. Aim to create about 12-16 meatballs depending on size preference.
- Heat a large skillet or braising pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Carefully place the meatballs in the hot skillet, browning each side for about 2-3 minutes to develop a rich, golden crust. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Once meatballs are browned, pour the tomato sauce over them. Add the pitted green olives, distributing them evenly around the meatballs.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for 35-40 minutes. This allows the meat to cook through and absorb the sauce's flavors.
- Check internal temperature of meatballs, which should reach 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional fresh parsley. Recommend pairing with crusty bread or rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh ground beef and high-quality green olives to enhance the dish's overall flavor. Fresh parsley also adds a vibrant touch.
- Don’t Skip Browning: Browning the meatballs is crucial for developing a rich flavor and texture. Make sure to give them enough space in the skillet to achieve that golden crust.
- Simmer for Flavor: Allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce for the full 35-40 minutes. This step is essential for the meat to absorb the delicious flavors of the tomato sauce and olives.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce before serving. Depending on the brand of tomato sauce used, you may want to adjust the seasoning with a pinch of salt or a dash of pepper.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your meatballs with crusty bread or fluffy rice to soak up the rich sauce. A simple side salad can also complement this hearty dish beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 110mg
