Here is another quick, easy and practical post to add to your kitchen skill toolbox.

Meatballs are an easy weeknight option, they are easy to make, and each one can be made into a little flavour bomb. 

Making meatballs is easy, a little messy but easy. You can follow these key steps to make tender meatballs every time no matter what flavours you put in the mix. Remember that meatballs are comfort food, so it is ok to keep it simple. 

Picking the right meat 

The most important thing about your meatballs is the meat (obviously). It doesn’t matter what meat you want to use for your meatballs, what is important is fat. The fat content of the meat is what will give you tender meatballs; if you use lean meat make sure you keep an eye on the meatballs while they cook. Without fat, you get dry, chewy meatballs. 

Remember that you can mix and match your meat. 

Do you need to bind it? 

Traditionally people add eggs and breadcrumbs to meatballs; I have never actually seen the need to add a binder to meatballs. Depending on what meat you use will generally dictate if you need to add anything to keep the meatballs together. I often find that sticker meats (sausage meat, chicken mince, or turkey) benefit from having something added to keep in some of the moisture. If you are looking to add a binder, look at adding coconut flour and egg. Just remember a little coconut flour goes a long way. 

Don’t handle the meat too much 

Another key thing to remember is not to overwork the meat. You want to work the meat as little as possible. The best tool you have for mixing ingredients in your hands, and this makes it easier to feel when everything is combined well. I know that working meat with your hands can feel a little gross, but your hands are the best tools for mixing and rolling. 

Making meatballs

1. Add the dry ingredients to the bowl.
2. Add the herbs and egg if you are using lean meat.
3. Add the meat to the bowl.
4. Use your hands to mix together the meat.
5. Don’t overwork the meat.
6. Make sure everything is well combined
7. Divide the meat mix into portions
8. Roll the portions into balls

How should you cook them? 

There are two options for cooking meatballs, roast them or cook them in a sauce. 

If you intend to freeze the meatballs or to serve them without sauce roasting is the best option. You can grill or roast the meatballs, make sure you let them cool before freezing. 

If your meatballs are going to be served with sauce, the best option is to cook the meatballs in the sauce, which will add flavour to the meat and keep it tender.