Description
Honey Garlic Meatballs are a balance of flavor and texture, offering a sophisticated twist on a classic comfort food. These meatballs feature a savory crust due to the Maillard reaction and remain moist inside thanks to a traditional panade. The combination of raw honey and fresh garlic creates a sophisticated umami-rich profile that enhances the meal's elegance.
Ingredients
1 lb Lean Ground Beef (90/10)
1/2 lb Ground Pork
1/2 cup Panko Breadcrumbs
1 Large Egg
4–6 Cloves Fresh Garlic
1/3 cup Pure Honey
1/4 cup Low-Sodium Soy Sauce
1 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk the egg and combine it with the breadcrumbs and a splash of milk. Let sit for five minutes
- In a large stainless steel bowl, gently mix the ground beef, ground pork, and panade. Add two cloves of minced garlic and a pinch of salt. Do not overmix
- Scoop approximately two tablespoons of the mixture and roll into uniform spheres, approximately 1.5 inches in diameter
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a teaspoon of high-smoke-point oil. Sear the meatballs until brown on all sides
- While the meatballs sear, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and remaining minced garlic in a separate container
- Pour the honey garlic mixture over the meatballs in the skillet and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer until the internal temperature reaches 160°F, basting for 3-5 minutes
- Remove from heat, allow to rest for five minutes before serving
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute ground beef and pork with ground turkey or chicken and add olive oil.
Avoid overmixing the meat to prevent tough texture.
Simply refrigerate formed meatballs for 20 minutes to help them hold their shape while cooking.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 meatballs
- Calories: 285 kcal
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 112mg