With their tender texture and a rich tomato sauce, these meatballs are particularly savory and versatile. Perfect alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or even fresh bread, these meatballs in sauce are ideal for a hearty and comforting family meal.
Ingredients for Meatballs:
500 g minced meat (pork, beef, or a mix)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2–3 garlic cloves, crushed
1 egg
3 tablespoons breadcrumbs
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh herbs (parsley or dill), chopped
Oil for frying
Ingredients for the Sauce:
500 ml tomato juice or 400 g tomato purée
1 small onion, finely chopped
2–3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 tablespoon oil
1 teaspoon sugar (to reduce the acidity of the tomatoes)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh herbs (optional), for garnish
Instructions
Preparing the Meatballs: In a large bowl, mix the minced meat with onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. Knead the mixture well until it becomes homogeneous. Form the meatballs into medium-sized balls and flatten them slightly. Heat oil in a pan and fry the meatballs until golden on all sides. Remove them onto a paper towel to absorb the excess oil.
Preparing the Sauce: In a deep pan or pot, heat one tablespoon of oil and sauté the onion until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, then add the tomato juice or puréed tomatoes. Add sugar, salt, and pepper, and let the sauce simmer over low heat for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Assembly and Final Cooking: Place the fried meatballs into the sauce and let them cook together for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend perfectly. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Serving: Serve the meatballs in tomato sauce hot, alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or fresh bread. Sprinkle fresh herbs on top for a pleasant finish.
Enjoy! These Romanian meatballs in sauce are perfect for lunch or dinner and will surely be appreciated by the whole family.
Why are meatballs in tomato sauce so popular in Romanian cuisine?
Meatballs in tomato sauce are popular because of their perfect combination of flavors and textures. The tender meatballs, cooked in a rich tomato sauce, represent a comforting dish, ideal for family meals. This recipe is versatile and can be served with various side dishes, making it suitable for all tastes.
How do we choose the best meat for meatballs?
The best meat is one with a balanced ratio of fat and lean meat. A mix of pork and beef is ideal, since the fat from the pork adds flavor, while the beef provides consistency. If you prefer a lighter option, chicken or turkey can be used.
What role does breadcrumbs play in the meatball mixture?
Breadcrumbs help absorb moisture and give the meatballs a lighter, tender texture. They also prevent the meatballs from falling apart during frying or cooking in sauce.
How can the acidity of the tomato sauce be reduced?
To reduce the acidity of tomato sauce, you can add a teaspoon of sugar while it simmers. If you prefer a natural alternative, a splash of milk or cream will neutralize the acidity without affecting the flavor of the dish.
Can meatballs be prepared without frying?
Yes, meatballs can be baked in the oven for a healthier version. Place them on a tray lined with baking paper and bake at 180°C for 20–25 minutes, turning them halfway through cooking.
What are the best side dishes for meatballs in tomato sauce?
Meatballs in tomato sauce pair perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or even fresh bread. For a refreshing touch, they can also be served alongside a green salad or assorted pickles.
How can the recipe be adapted for people with gluten intolerance?
Instead of breadcrumbs, you can use gluten-free oats or grated potato to bind the mixture. Also, make sure the tomato juice used does not contain additives that could have gluten.
How can the flavor of the tomato sauce be enriched?
The flavor of the tomato sauce can be enhanced by adding herbs such as oregano, basil, or thyme. Sautéing the garlic before adding the tomatoes and adding a splash of red or white wine can bring extra depth to the sauce.
Can meatballs be prepared in advance?
Yes, meatballs can be prepared ahead of time and frozen, either raw or cooked. To use them, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and heat them in tomato sauce before serving.
How can this recipe be turned into a festive dish?
For a festive meal, the meatballs in tomato sauce can be served in a beautifully decorated ceramic dish, sprinkled with fresh herbs and grated Parmesan. Alongside, you can offer various sides such as buttery mashed potatoes, tagliatelle, or even gnocchi for an elegant presentation.
