Save Those Soy Packets-- here's why!
I've been on an organizing kick lately. When I was cleaning out a drawer I discovered several packets of soy sauce from a recent Chinese food to-go order. Well, instead of tossing these I was inspired to use them. Enjoy this Hoisin Meatballs. It pairs perfectly with sticky rice and sautéd Swiss chard.
Meatball recipe
These Chinese style meatballs always call for pork to be used but I have found that any meat is wonderful. I love to use turkey but you can even use homemade or store bought meatballs (and veggie balls go great with this recipe because the sauce is very flavorful).
1 lb ground meat of your choice or you can mix your meat selection as well.
1/2 C Italian Bread Crumbs
I small or half of a large chopped onion, chopped small
2 cloves garlic minced
2 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
2 TBS ketchup
1 large egg to help bind ingredients and make nice meatballs that hold their shape.
Add all ingredients into a large bowl and mix. Hands work best and kiddo hands are perfect for this task. Once mixed well, roll into balls and line a baking sheet.
Bake at 375 until done. Should take 20-25 minutes depending on the thickness of meatballs.
Sauce:
1/2 C Hoisen Sauce*
1 TBS fresh crushed garlic
1 TBS fresh grated ginger root
1/4 C orange juice
2 TBS soy sauce
2 TBS sesame oil
Add all sauce ingredients to a large sauté pan. I love to use my large cast iron pan. Heat sauce on medium until bubbly. Next add in cooked meatballs and cook about 10 minutes.
*Hoisin sauce is a thick and flavorful, commonly used as a glaze, a dipping sauce, or a stir fry sauce in Chinese cooking. Don't have this in the pantry? We bet you have the makings for it-- check out this recipe. Serve with a large bowl with basmati rice and a sautéed vegetable. I sautéed some Swiss chard and it was delicious. Have fun with this one and enjoy!