Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Milan! These Polpette al la Milanese are not just ordinary meatballs – they're a symphony of flavors that will make your family beg for seconds. Imagine golden-brown, perfectly seasoned meatballs that are crispy on the outside, incredibly tender on the inside, and packed with authentic Italian charm. Whether you're a cooking novice or a seasoned chef, this recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to dish that promises to impress everyone at the dinner table!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 500g ground beef
- 100g breadcrumbs
- 50g grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly using your hands until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Gently knead the mixture for 2-3 minutes to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed and the mixture becomes slightly sticky and cohesive.
- Shape the meat mixture into uniform meatballs, approximately 4-5 cm in diameter. Aim to create about 12-15 meatballs depending on your preferred size.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be about 1/4 inch deep to ensure even frying.
- Carefully place the meatballs into the hot oil, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook in batches if necessary to maintain proper spacing.
- Fry the meatballs for 3-4 minutes on each side, turning them gently to achieve a golden-brown crust on all surfaces.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for food safety, which typically takes about 8-10 minutes total cooking time.
- Remove the meatballs from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Let the meatballs rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and ensure maximum tenderness.
- Serve hot, optionally accompanied by a light tomato sauce, fresh herbs, or a side of risotto alla Milanese.
Tips
- Mix with Your Hands: Don't be afraid to get hands-on! Using your hands helps blend the ingredients more thoroughly and creates a more cohesive texture.
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your oil is at the right heat (medium-high) to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust without burning the meatballs.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy, less crispy meatballs.
- Rest is Best: Always let your meatballs rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for food safety and perfect cooking.
- Optional Flavor Boost: Consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil to the meat mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve Immediately: These meatballs are best enjoyed hot and fresh, so time your serving carefully for the ultimate dining experience!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 120mg
