This Meatball and Vegetable Stew is a dish so flavorful and satisfying that it’s sure to become a family favorite. With tender meatballs simmered in a rich tomato and vegetable sauce, this recipe delivers comfort and taste in every bite. The combination of simple ingredients and robust flavors makes it perfect for any occasion, and it’s guaranteed to leave everyone at the table asking for seconds.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- Ground Beef: 1 lb (450 g)
- Garlic and Parmesan Breadcrumbs: 2 tablespoons
- Eggs: 2
- Salt: To taste
For the Sauce:
- Onion: 1, finely chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Carrots: 2, sliced
- Potatoes: 5, diced
- Olive Oil: For frying
- Dried Tomatoes: 3.5 oz (100 g), chopped
- Tomato Sauce: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Meat Broth: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Hot Pepper: To taste
- Italian Herbs: To taste
- Capers: To taste
For Garnish:
- Parsley: Freshly chopped
Preparation of Meatballs
Creating delicious meatballs is the foundation of this dish. Here’s how to make them:
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the ground beef with 2 tablespoons of garlic and Parmesan breadcrumbs, 2 eggs, and salt to taste. Mix until the ingredients are well combined, forming a cohesive mixture.
- Shape the Meatballs: Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into evenly sized balls, ensuring they hold their shape. Set the meatballs aside as you prepare the rest of the dish.
Sautéing the Aromatics
Infuse your dish with rich flavors by following these steps:
- Prepare the Aromatics: Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- Sautéing: Heat a pan with a generous amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them until they become golden brown and fragrant. This process should take about 5-7 minutes.
Cooking the Dish
Now it’s time to bring everything together for a mouthwatering meal:
- Building Flavor: Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, 1 cup of tomato sauce, and 1 cup of meat broth to the pan with the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir in hot pepper, Italian herbs, and salt to taste. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to develop the flavors.
- Adding Vegetables and Meatballs: Add the sliced carrots and diced potatoes to the sauce. Gently place the prepared meatballs into the pan, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Sprinkle in some capers for an extra burst of flavor.
- Simmering: Cover the pan and let the stew simmer over low heat for 40 minutes. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together perfectly, with the meatballs absorbing the rich tomato and vegetable sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Present your culinary masterpiece with style:
- Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a pop of color and freshness.
- Accompaniments: Serve the stew alongside crusty bread or fluffy rice to soak up the delicious sauce. These sides will complement the hearty meatballs and rich sauce perfectly.
Why This Recipe Rocks
- Simple Yet Flavorful: With just a few basic ingredients, this recipe delivers incredible taste that will leave everyone craving more.
- Versatile: Customize the dish by adding your favorite herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.
Tips for Success
- Choose Quality Meat: Opt for high-quality ground beef to ensure tender and flavorful meatballs.
- Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Proper seasoning is key to enhancing the flavors of the dish, so don’t be shy with the salt and spices.
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
This Meatball and Vegetable Stew is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings comfort and joy to the table. The combination of tender meatballs, hearty vegetables, and a rich, flavorful sauce is perfect for a family dinner that everyone will love. Enjoy this recipe, and watch it become a beloved favorite in your home!