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Hawaiian Meatballs

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Hawaiian meatballs are a delicious fusion of savory and sweet, with tender meatballs simmered in a tangy pineapple sauce. Perfect for parties, family dinners, or a fun weeknight meal, they offer a tropical twist on a classic comfort food.

Ingredients

  • For the Meatballs:
  • 1 pound ground beef (or a combination of beef )
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • For the Sauce:
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks (with juice, canned or fresh)
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated or powdered
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef , breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, minced garlic, salt, pepper, soy sauce, and dried oregano. Mix until fully incorporated.
  3. Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart.
  4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through (160°F internal temperature).
  5. While the meatballs bake, prepare the sauce by combining the pineapple (with juice), soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ketchup, ginger, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes in a medium saucepan. Stir to combine.
  6. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 8-10 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  7. Once the meatballs are baked, transfer them to a large skillet. Pour the simmered sauce over the meatballs, tossing gently to coat them evenly.
  8. Simmer the meatballs in the sauce for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and the meatballs to absorb the flavors.
  9. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions, if desired. Serve with rice, in a sub roll, or as an appetizer with toothpicks.

Notes

If you want a spicier version, add fresh chopped jalapeños or more red pepper flakes to the sauce.You can substitute ground chicken or turkey for a leaner meatball option.For a sweeter sauce, increase the brown sugar slightly or add more pineapple juice.To make ahead, you can prepare the meatballs and sauce, then refrigerate or freeze. Reheat and coat in the sauce when ready to serve.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookibly.com/hawaiian-meatballs/