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Filipino Meatball Pot 3

Serves 4 to 6 Entree meat

Filipino Meatball Pot 3

Filipino Meatball Pot 3 is a staple at family tables, often making an appearance during casual weeknight dinners. This dish reflects the resourcefulness of Filipino cooks, who transform simple ingredients into a comforting meal. The meatballs are shaped by experienced hands, with salt and seasoning adjusted to perfection without the aid of measuring spoons. The generous use of fat ensures a rich, satisfying flavor that defines this home-cooked favorite.

Expect each bite to be juicy, with the ground beef and onion mixture creating a tender texture, while the tomatoes add a subtle tang. The breadcrumbs and egg bind the meatballs, giving them structure and a delicate bite. This dish is made to be shared, inviting everyone to gather around and enjoy the communal experience of a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

  • 700 gground beef
  • 1onion
  • 1egg
  • 2 tbspbreadcrumbs
  • 2tomatoes
  • to tastefine sea salt and black pepper

Method

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 700 g ground beef, 1 finely chopped onion, 1 egg, and 2 tbsp breadcrumbs. Season generously with fine sea salt and black pepper to taste. Mix everything together using your hands until the ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is slightly sticky.
  2. Shape the mixture into meatballs, about the size of a golf ball. Ensure they are compact and smooth, which helps them hold together during cooking.
  3. Heat a generous amount of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the meatballs in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Brown the meatballs on all sides until they develop a deep, rich color, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step locks in the flavors and creates a delicious crust.
  4. While the meatballs are browning, dice 2 tomatoes. Once the meatballs are browned, remove them from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
  5. In the same skillet, add the diced tomatoes. Cook them over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they soften and release their juices, creating a simple sauce. This should take about 5-7 minutes, and the tomatoes should look slightly mushy and aromatic.
  6. Return the browned meatballs to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cover the skillet. Allow the meatballs to braise in the sauce for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender and cooked through. The meatballs should feel firm to the touch and the sauce should have thickened slightly.
  7. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve the meatballs hot, accompanied by rice, bread, or a fresh salad, sharing them family-style at the table.
Cover of Authentic Filipino Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Filipino Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic Filipino Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the Filipino volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.

Available soon on Amazon…

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