Bruneian-style Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

Ingredients

In the Bruneian adaptation of Polpete u šalši, we incorporate Bruneian flavors and ingredients to create a unique twist. The original Croatian dish is typically made with a combination of ground beef and pork, while the Bruneian version uses a mix of ground beef and chicken for a lighter taste. Additionally, we infuse the meatballs with Bruneian spices such as turmeric and lemongrass to add a hint of exotic flavor. The tomato sauce is also enhanced with local ingredients like tamarind paste and palm sugar, giving it a distinct Bruneian touch. We alse have the original recipe for Polpete u šalši, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef
• 500g (1.1 lb) ground chicken 500g (1.1 lb) ground chicken
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemongrass, finely chopped 1 tablespoon fresh lemongrass, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 400g (14 oz) canned diced tomatoes 400g (14 oz) canned diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon tamarind paste 1 tablespoon tamarind paste
• 1 tablespoon palm sugar (or brown sugar) 1 tablespoon palm sugar (or brown sugar)
• 1 cup (240ml) water 1 cup (240ml) water

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 22g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 12g, 6g
• Protein: 34g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, cilantro, lemongrass, turmeric, cumin, 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. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
4. 4.
   In the same skillet, add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, tamarind paste, palm sugar, and water. Stir well to combine.
5. 5.
   Bring the sauce to a simmer and return the meatballs to the skillet. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
6. 6.
   Serve the meatballs in tomato sauce hot with steamed rice or crusty bread.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lemongrass — To release the flavor, bruise the lemongrass stalk with the back of a knife before finely chopping it.
• Tamarind paste — If you can't find tamarind paste, you can substitute it with lime juice for a tangy flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add a pinch of chili flakes to the meatball mixture.
• If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little more water to achieve the desired consistency.
• To save time, you can make the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them until ready to cook.

Serving advice

Serve the Bruneian-style Meatballs in Tomato Sauce hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves. Accompany the dish with steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Presentation advice

Arrange the meatballs in a shallow serving dish and pour the tomato sauce over them. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for a pop of color. Serve with a side of steamed rice or crusty bread.