DESCRIPTION OF FESTIVE TANGY CRANBERRY MEATBALLS
Our Festive Tangy Cranberry Meatballs blend savoury flavours with a touch of sweetness, creating a perfect holiday appetiser. These meatballs are seasoned with aromatic spices and paired with a vibrant cranberry sauce, offering a delicious contrast that’s sure to delight your guests.
RECIPE CATEGORY
- Appetisers, Hors D Oeuvres
SERVING SIZE
- Serves 6
CUISINE
- American
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
- Bake, Simmer
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
- Christmas, New Year’s Eve, Thanksgiving, Party, Fall
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
- Kid Friendly, Low Fat
DISH TYPE
- Appetiser, Dip
INGREDIENTS FOR FESTIVE TANGY CRANBERRY MEATBALLS
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup whole wheat panko breadcrumbs
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, finely grated
- 2 Tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 1 Tbsp fresh parsley, minced
For the Cranberry Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh squeezed orange juice
- 1/3 cup honey
- 12 oz. fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup chili sauce
- 1 tsp. orange zest
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper, to taste
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: Approx 260 per serving
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 12g
- Sodium: 300mg
PREPARATION FOR FESTIVE TANGY CRANBERRY MEATBALLS
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine all meatball ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the meatballs are browned and cooked through.
- While the meatballs are baking, combine all sauce ingredients except the cranberries in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook until the mixture starts to simmer.
- Add the cranberries and continue to simmer until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens about 10-15 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Toss the baked meatballs in the cranberry sauce and serve warm.
PREP TIME
- 15 minutes
COOKING TIME
- 35 minutes
TIPS FOR FESTIVE TANGY CRANBERRY MEATBALLS
- Soaking the breadcrumbs in a little milk can make the meatballs even more tender.
- For a spicier kick, add more cayenne pepper to the cranberry sauce.
VARIATIONS
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef for a lighter version.
- Add diced apples or orange segments to the cranberry sauce for extra fruitiness.
PREPPING AND STORAGE GUIDE FOR TANGY CRANBERRY MEATBALLS
- Meatballs can be made ahead and frozen before baking. Thaw and bake as directed.
- Store leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This recipe not only serves up a festive look but also packs a flavorful punch that’s perfect for any celebration, making it a guaranteed hit among your holiday spread!