Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Special equipment needed:
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Non-stick cooking spray
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, chili powder, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and chopped fresh cilantro. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Using your hands, shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
4. Spray a baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray and place the meatballs on the sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
5. Drizzle the vegetable oil over the meatballs and use your hands to gently toss them, making sure they are evenly coated.
6. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through.
7. Remove the meatballs from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
- This recipe makes approximately 20 meatballs, serving size will depend on personal preference.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 120
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 4g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 8g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or chicken.
- Breadcrumbs can be substituted with panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.
- Chopped onion can be substituted with minced garlic or shallots.
- Fresh cilantro can be substituted with fresh parsley or basil.
Variations:
- Add 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the meatball mixture for extra flavor.
- Serve the meatballs with a side of Mexican rice and black beans for a complete meal.
- Add a can of diced tomatoes to the meatball mixture for a saucier version.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a cookie scoop to help shape the meatballs evenly.
- To prevent the meatballs from sticking to the baking sheet, spray it with non-stick cooking spray or line it with parchment paper.
- For a spicier version, add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meatball mixture.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat the meatballs, place them in a microwave-safe dish and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the meatballs on a platter with toothpicks for a party appetizer.
- Garnish the meatballs with chopped fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of chili powder.
Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Chili powder
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Pairings:
- Mexican rice
- Black beans
- Guacamole
- Salsa
Suggested side dishes:
- Mexican rice
- Black beans
- Grilled vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the meatballs are too dry, add a little more egg or vegetable oil to the mixture.
- If the meatballs are falling apart, add more breadcrumbs to help bind the mixture together.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the meatballs are cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure they are safe to eat.
Food history:
- Meatballs are a popular dish in many cultures, including Mexican cuisine. They are often served as a party appetizer or as a main course with rice and beans.
Flavor profiles:
- The meatballs are savory and slightly spicy, with a hint of cumin and chili powder. The fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous flavor.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the meatballs as a party appetizer or as a main course with rice and beans.
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Region: Mexican