Description
A delightful and easy recipe for Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs, perfect for appetizers or a main course. These meatballs are coated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce with a tropical pineapple twist.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
- Green onions, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
- While the meatballs are baking, prepare the teriyaki sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine pineapple chunks, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and minced garlic.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
- Add the cornstarch slurry to the simmering sauce, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
- Once the meatballs are cooked, drain any excess fat.
- Add the baked meatballs to the thickened teriyaki sauce. Stir gently to coat the meatballs evenly.
- Simmer for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the meatballs to absorb the sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the teriyaki sauce.
- If using fresh pineapple, ensure it is ripe for the best flavor.
- These meatballs can be made ahead of time and reheated in the sauce.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer/Main Course
- Method: Baking and Simmering
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired