Bola-bola with a Devon Twist

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Filipino Bola-bola is transformed into a creamy delight by incorporating Devonshire cream into the sauce. The addition of local herbs and spices gives it a distinct Devon flavor profile, while still maintaining the essence of the original dish. We alse have the original recipe for Bola-bola, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef
• 500g (1.1 lb) ground pork 500g (1.1 lb) ground pork
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk 1/4 cup milk
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 cup Devonshire cream 1 cup Devonshire cream
• 1 cup beef broth 1 cup beef broth
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 30g, 12g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 6g, 1g
• Protein: 38g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, thyme, rosemary, 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.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
4. 4.
   Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
5. 5.
   In the same skillet, add the Devonshire cream and beef broth. Stir well to combine.
6. 6.
   Return the meatballs to the skillet and simmer in the sauce for 10-15 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
7. 7.
   Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef and pork — Use lean cuts of meat for a healthier option.
• Devonshire cream — If Devonshire cream is not available, you can substitute it with heavy cream or crème fraîche.
• Fresh parsley — For a burst of freshness, use flat-leaf parsley instead of curly parsley.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the meatball mixture.
• Serve Devon Delight with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or buttered noodles to complement the flavors.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and add it to the sauce during the simmering process.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day, as the flavors tend to develop and intensify over time.

Serving advice

Serve Devon Delight hot, with the meatballs generously coated in the creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the meatballs in a shallow serving dish, with the creamy sauce poured over them. Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for an elegant touch. Serve with a side of mashed potatoes or buttered noodles to complete the presentation.