Chinese Pineapple Meatballs
Juicy meatballs with crunchy pecans and savory flavors, deep-fried to perfection. Ideal for parties or casual dinners, offering a delightful blend of textures and Asian-inspired taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, minced celery, pecans, salt, cornflakes, eggs, soy sauce, and garlic in a mixing bowl.
- Roll the mixture into small meatball shapes.
- Roll each meatball in flour to coat.
- Deep fry the coated meatballs in very hot vegetable oil until golden and cooked through, then drain on paper towels.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some finely chopped green onions or bell peppers with the meatball mixture. If you're looking for a healthier option, ground turkey can be used instead of beef. Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying; a test is to drop a small piece of bread in; it should sizzle immediately. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pineapple meatballs over a bed of jasmine rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables for a delightful meal. They pair beautifully with Chinese Pepper Steaks or Marinated Beef And Broccoli Supper. A sweet and sour dipping sauce can enhance the flavor profile. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped cilantro for an appealing presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them in short bursts, but they may lose some crispiness. For longer storage, freeze the meatballs in a single layer and transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinese Pineapple Meatballs contains roughly 444 calories, with 9g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (62% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (58% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatball mixture and form them into balls a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to fry them. This can save time on busy days and allows the flavors to meld together.
What oil is best for deep frying the meatballs?
Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil or canola oil, for deep frying. These oils ensure that the meatballs fry evenly without imparting strong flavors. Avoid using olive oil, as it has a lower smoke point and can burn.
Can I bake these meatballs instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the meatballs for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 400°F, place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through. They may not be as crispy as fried, but they will still be delicious.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).