New Guinnies
New Guinnies feature savory meatballs wrapped in cabbage leaves, simmered in tomato juice, delivering hearty flavors perfect for family dinners or comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wilt cabbage leaves.
- Shape hamburger meat, sausage, rice, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and chopped onion into balls.
- Wrap each meatball in a cabbage leaf and fasten with a toothpick.
- Cook the wrapped meatballs in tomato juice for 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some grated cheese into the meat mixture before forming the balls. If you're short on time, substitute cooked quinoa for rice or use pre-made meatballs for a quicker preparation. You can also add diced bell peppers or carrots to the filling for extra texture and nutrition. This dish is reminiscent of other hearty American recipes, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the New Guinnies alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. They also pair beautifully with the light and creamy Potato Patch Casserole for a comforting dinner. Consider offering crusty bread for dipping in the tomato juice, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm the meatballs in a saucepan on the stove with a bit of tomato juice, or microwave them until heated through. This method helps retain moisture and flavor, ensuring they remain delicious.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of New Guinnies contains roughly 70 calories, with 3g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (12% of the Daily Value) and iron (10% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 use a different type of meat instead of hamburger and sausage?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives if you prefer a leaner or vegetarian option. Just ensure that the meat is well-seasoned to maintain the dish's flavor profile.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To enhance the heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture. You can also serve the dish with hot sauce on the side, allowing each diner to adjust the spice level to their liking.
Is it possible to freeze the New Guinnies?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked wrapped meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and proceed with the cooking instructions.
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).