Chinese-style Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

Ingredients

In this adaptation, we infuse the Italian classic polpette al sugo with the flavors of Canadian Chinese cuisine. The meatballs are seasoned with Chinese spices such as ginger, garlic, and five-spice powder, giving them a unique and aromatic taste. The tomato sauce is also enhanced with soy sauce and hoisin sauce, adding a touch of sweetness and umami. This fusion dish combines the best of both worlds, creating a delightful blend of Italian and Chinese flavors. We alse have the original recipe for Polpette al sugo, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon five-spice powder 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg, beaten 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup beef broth 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 15g, 5g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, green onions, garlic, ginger, five-spice powder, salt, black pepper, egg, soy sauce, and hoisin sauce. 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 diced tomatoes and beef broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
6. 6.
   Return the meatballs to the skillet and simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
7. 7.
   Serve the meatballs with the tomato sauce, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef — Use lean ground beef for healthier meatballs. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can use a combination of ground beef and ground pork.
• Five-spice powder — If you don't have five-spice powder, you can make your own by combining equal parts ground cinnamon, cloves, fennel seeds, star anise, and Szechuan peppercorns.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili flakes to the meatball mixture.
• Serve the meatballs over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
• If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend the diced tomatoes before adding them to the skillet.
• Make a double batch of meatballs and freeze the extras for future meals.
• Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.

Serving advice

Serve the Chinese-style meatballs in tomato sauce as a main course, accompanied by steamed rice or noodles. Add a side of stir-fried vegetables or a fresh salad to complete the meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the meatballs on a platter and pour the tomato sauce over them. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an attractive presentation.