Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the most irresistible Asian-inspired dish that will transform your dinner routine! These Sweet and Sour Meatball Skewers are not just a meal, they're a culinary adventure that combines juicy, perfectly seasoned beef meatballs with a glossy, mouth-watering sweet and sour sauce. In just 35 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality dish that will have your family and friends begging for seconds - and the best part? It's incredibly easy to make!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 cup sweet and sour sauce
- Skewers
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, finely chopped onion, and finely chopped bell pepper. Mix thoroughly using your hands until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Gently form the meat mixture into uniform, round meatballs approximately 1-
- 5 inches in diameter. Ensure the meatballs are compact to prevent them from falling apart during cooking.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 15-20 minutes before cooking to prevent burning. This will help the skewers remain intact during grilling or broiling.
- Preheat your grill, broiler, or a large skillet to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the cooking surface to prevent sticking.
- Thread the meatballs onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each meatball to ensure even cooking. Typically, 3-4 meatballs per skewer works well.
- Cook the meatball skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even browning on all sides. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for fully cooked beef.
- During the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, brush the meatballs generously with sweet and sour sauce, allowing it to caramelize slightly and create a glossy coating.
- Remove the skewers from heat and let them rest for 2-3 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meatballs.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional sweet and sour sauce, chopped green onions, or sesame seeds if desired. Pair with steamed rice or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Moisture is Key: When mixing your meatball ingredients, be careful not to overmix, which can make the meat tough. Mix just until ingredients are combined.
- Uniform Size Matters: Use a small ice cream scoop or weigh your meatballs to ensure they cook evenly and look professional.
- Skewer Hack: Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 15 minutes before use to prevent burning. For even easier preparation, consider using metal skewers.
- Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your meatballs reach 160°F (71°C) for food safety.
- Sauce Application: Apply the sweet and sour sauce in the last few minutes of cooking to prevent burning and create a beautiful, glossy finish.
- Resting Time: Let the skewers rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 95mg
