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Chai Spiced Mini Meatballs.theaigourmet.ca

Chai Spiced Mini Meatballs

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When it comes to comfort food, meatballs are an undisputed favourite. Whether served as a main course with pasta or as a delectable appetizer, meatballs have an undeniable charm that makes them a crowd-pleaser.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings 4 people

Ingredients

  • For the Meatballs:
  • 1 pound ground beef or a combination of beef and pork
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro chopped
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying
  • For the Chai Sauce:
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  • Prepare the Meatballs:
  • a. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let them soak for a few minutes until the breadcrumbs absorb the milk.
  • b. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, black pepper, salt, egg, and chopped cilantro. Mix everything together until well combined.
  • c. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. You should be able to make approximately 24 mini meatballs.
  • Cook the Meatballs:
  • a. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • b. Add the meatballs to the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them. You may need to cook them in batches.
  • c. Cook the meatballs for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are browned and cooked through. Transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
  • Prepare the Chai Sauce:
  • a. In a separate saucepan, combine the tomato sauce, water, heavy cream, honey, ground ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, black pepper, and a pinch of salt.
  • b. Stir the sauce well to combine all the ingredients.
  • c. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
  • Combine the Meatballs and Chai Sauce:
  • a. Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked meatballs to the chai sauce in the saucepan.
  • b. Gently stir to coat the meatballs evenly with the chai sauce.
  • c. Allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce for an additional 5-7 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  • Serve and Enjoy:
  • a. Transfer the chai spiced mini meatballs to a serving platter.
  • b. Garnish with additional fresh cilantro if desired.
  • c. Serve your chai spiced mini meatballs with rice, naan bread, or as an appetizer with toothpicks for a delicious and flavourful treat.