Description
This recipe for Juicy Meatballs with Savory Non-Alcoholic Gravy is a comfort food classic! Tender meatballs, perfectly seasoned, are paired with a rich, velvety gravy made from fresh vegetables. This dish is perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or impressing guests. Serve it with mashed potatoes, dumplings, or steamed vegetables for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1000 grams minced meat (pork or mixed)
- 1 bunch parsley, chopped
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 50 grams breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
For the Gravy:
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, finely chopped
- 50–80 grams celery, finely chopped
- 3 teaspoons tomato paste
- 700–800 milliliters vegetable broth
- 1–2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with cold water
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine minced meat, parsley, onion, mustard, garlic powder, ground cumin, dried rosemary, salt, pepper, breadcrumbs, and eggs.
- Mix thoroughly with your hands or a spoon until the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into evenly sized meatballs. You can make them small or large, depending on your preference.
2. Cook the Meatballs:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a splash of oil.
- Add the meatballs to the skillet in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
- Cook the meatballs, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and fully cooked through (about 6-8 minutes).
- Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onions, carrots, and celery.
- Sauté over medium heat until the onions turn translucent and the vegetables soften (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Make the Gravy:
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to enhance its flavor.
- Pour the vegetable broth into the skillet, stirring to deglaze the pan and mix with the vegetables.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix cold water with cornstarch until smooth, then pour this mixture into the skillet while stirring continuously.
- Let the gravy simmer for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine the Meatballs and Gravy:
- Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy.
- Simmer for 5-10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Spoon the gravy over the meatballs to coat them evenly.
6. Serve:
- Serve the meatballs hot with a generous amount of gravy.
- Pair with mashed potatoes, dumplings, or steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Adjust the Seasoning: Add chili flakes to the meatballs or gravy for a spicy kick.
- Thicker Gravy: If the gravy is too thin, add more cornstarch mixed with cold water.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stove-Top Cooking
- Cuisine: Comfort Food