Grilled Mantuan Meatballs (Bakso Bakar Mantuan)

Ingredients

In this adaptation, we have taken the traditional Indonesian dish, Bakso Bakar, and infused it with the flavors of Mantuan cuisine. The original dish is typically made with Indonesian spices and served with a spicy peanut sauce. However, in this Mantuan version, we have replaced the Indonesian spices with Mantuan spices and the peanut sauce with a tangy tomato-based dipping sauce. The grilling technique adds a smoky flavor to the meatballs, giving them a unique twist. We alse have the original recipe for Bakso bakar, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 shallots, finely chopped 2 shallots, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• For the dipping sauce: For the dipping sauce:
• 4 tomatoes, diced 4 tomatoes, diced
• 2 tablespoons vinegar 2 tablespoons vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar 1 tablespoon sugar
• Salt to taste Salt to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 5g, 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, minced garlic, chopped shallots, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Brush the meatballs with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
5. 5.
   Place the meatballs on the grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are cooked through and have a nice charred exterior.
6. 6.
   While the meatballs are grilling, prepare the dipping sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the diced tomatoes, vinegar, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat until the tomatoes are soft and the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. 7.
   Serve the grilled Mantuan meatballs with the tangy tomato dipping sauce on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef — Use lean ground beef for healthier meatballs. If you prefer a juicier texture, you can use a mix of lean and fatty ground beef.
• Mantuan spices — If you can't find Mantuan spices, you can substitute with a combination of Italian seasoning and a pinch of chili flakes for a similar flavor profile.
• Tomatoes — Choose ripe and juicy tomatoes for the dipping sauce to enhance the flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a smokier flavor, you can add a small amount of liquid smoke to the meatball mixture.
• If you don't have a grill, you can also cook the meatballs in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 15-20 minutes.
• Serve the grilled Mantuan meatballs with a side of steamed rice or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Serving advice

Serve the grilled Mantuan meatballs hot, with the tangy tomato dipping sauce on the side. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the grilled Mantuan meatballs on a platter, drizzle the tangy tomato dipping sauce over them, and sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs on top for an appetizing presentation.