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firecracker meatballs recipe

firecracker meatballs recipe
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These firecracker meatballs deliver a bold explosion of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors wrapped around tender, juicy meatballs. Perfectly balanced with family-friendly heat and simple to prepare, this versatile dish works well as an appetizer, main course, or party snack. Customize protein, spice, and sweetness levels easily to suit your taste and dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatball Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground meat (beef, pork, turkey, or a mix)
  • 1/2 cup bread crumbs (or almond flour/gluten-free panko for gluten-free option)
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Firecracker Sauce Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup sriracha or chili sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar (or maple syrup/agave nectar for variation)
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons water (optional, to thin sauce)

Garnishes

  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground meat, bread crumbs, egg, minced garlic, grated ginger, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined to maintain tenderness.
  2. Shape the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about one inch in diameter, for consistent cooking.
  3. Cook the Meatballs: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Brown the meatballs on all sides for 5-7 minutes to seal in juices and form a crust. If needed, transfer to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes to finish cooking through.
  4. Make the Firecracker Sauce: While the meatballs cook, whisk together sriracha, honey, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and a little water in a pan. Heat over medium until slightly thickened and bubbly, about 3-5 minutes.
  5. Toss Meatballs in Sauce: Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and gently stir to coat them evenly. Let simmer together for 1-2 minutes to meld flavors.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Top with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Optionally, add cilantro or chopped peanuts for extra flair before serving.

Notes

  • Mix pork and beef together for juicier, more flavorful meatballs.
  • Do not overmix meatball ingredients to avoid dense, tough texture.
  • Use a small cookie scoop for uniform meatball size.
  • Dry meatballs before browning to develop a better crust.
  • Simmer sauce longer for thicker, clingier texture.
  • Adjust sriracha quantity to control spice level according to preference.

Nutrition

Keywords: firecracker meatballs, spicy meatballs, appetizer, party snack, gluten-free meatballs, easy dinner, spicy sauce, Asian-inspired meatballs

Find it online: https://mealsbysarah.com/firecracker-meatballs-recipe/