Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup tomato sauce
Special equipment needed:
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Roll the meatballs in the grated Parmesan cheese, making sure they are fully coated.
5. Place the meatballs in a baking dish and pour the tomato sauce over them.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the cheese is golden brown.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 290
Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 23g
Sodium: 760mg
Sugar: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground pork or turkey can be used instead of ground beef.
- Panko breadcrumbs can be used instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- Any type of milk can be used instead of regular milk.
- Dried parsley can be used instead of fresh parsley.
- Any type of grated cheese can be used instead of Parmesan cheese.
- Homemade or store-bought marinara sauce can be used instead of tomato sauce.
Variations:
- Add some chopped spinach or kale to the meat mixture for added nutrition.
- Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, for a different flavor.
- Add some red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce for a spicy kick.
- Serve the meatballs over pasta or with a side of roasted vegetables.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to fully coat the meatballs in the Parmesan cheese for maximum flavor.
- Use a cookie scoop or melon baller to make evenly sized meatballs.
- If the meatballs are sticking to the baking dish, lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the meatballs in a microwave-safe dish and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, place the meatballs in a baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the meatballs on a platter with some fresh parsley or basil for garnish.
Garnishes:
Fresh parsley or basil
Pairings:
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or crusty bread for dipping in the tomato sauce.
- Pair with a simple green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or carrots.
- Garlic mashed potatoes.
- Creamy polenta.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the meatballs are dry, add a little more milk to the mixture.
- If the cheese is not browning, place the baking dish under the broiler for a few minutes.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the meatballs to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure they are fully cooked.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food history:
Perișoare is a traditional Romanian dish made with ground meat and spices. It is typically served with a tomato-based sauce and can be baked, fried, or boiled.
Flavor profiles:
Savory, cheesy, slightly tangy from the tomato sauce.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the meatballs as a main dish with a side of crusty bread or roasted vegetables.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: Romanian