Chinese-style Meatballs with Soy-Ginger Glaze

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Turkish köfte is transformed into Chinese-style meatballs by incorporating Chinese flavors and cooking techniques. The original köfte recipe is enhanced with the addition of soy sauce, ginger, and other Chinese spices, giving it a unique twist. The meatballs are also glazed with a soy-ginger sauce, which is a departure from the traditional Turkish preparation. This fusion dish brings together the best of both cuisines, resulting in a delightful and innovative recipe. We alse have the original recipe for Köfte, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef
• 250g (0.55 lb) ground lamb 250g (0.55 lb) ground lamb
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
• 1 egg, beaten 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons honey 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water 1/4 cup water
• Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 24g, 9g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 6g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground lamb, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, black pepper, soy sauce, grated ginger, breadcrumbs, and beaten egg. 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 8-10 minutes.
4. 4.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and water until smooth.
5. 5.
   Pour the honey mixture over the meatballs in the skillet. Stir gently to coat the meatballs with the sauce.
6. 6.
   Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the meatballs are cooked through.
7. 7.
   Serve the Chinese-style meatballs hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef and lamb — Use lean cuts of meat for a healthier option. If desired, you can substitute ground chicken or turkey for the lamb.
• Soy sauce — Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the overall salt content of the dish.
• Rice vinegar — If you don't have rice vinegar, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar.
• Cornstarch — Cornstarch helps thicken the sauce. If you prefer a thinner sauce, you can reduce the amount of cornstarch or omit it altogether.

Tips & Tricks

• For extra flavor, you can add a splash of sesame oil to the meatball mixture.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil to the sauce.
• To save time, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them until ready to cook.
• Serve the meatballs with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
• These meatballs can also be served as an appetizer or party snack.

Serving advice

Serve the Chinese-style meatballs as a main course with steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added freshness and visual appeal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the meatballs on a platter, drizzle the sauce over them, and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve with a side of steamed rice or noodles for an attractive and appetizing presentation.