Patti'S Porcupines
Patti's Porcupines are savory meatballs stuffed with rice, coated with a crust, and simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce, perfect for comforting family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground meat, rice, water, chopped onion, salt, celery salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Form the mixture into 4 medium-sized balls or smaller portions.
- In a skillet, fry the meatballs in shortening until crusty on all sides.
- Add tomato sauce, water, and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet.
- Mix well, cover, and simmer over low heat for 45 minutes.
- Add additional water if needed during simmering.
- Serve hot, with the option to double the recipe for larger servings.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, consider substituting ground turkey with ground beef, as it adds a richer taste. If you prefer a healthier option, brown rice can replace white rice for a nuttier flavor and more fiber. Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture can enhance the depth of flavor. Keep an eye on the simmering time to ensure the meatballs stay moist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Patti's Porcupines hot over a bed of mashed potatoes or rice for a hearty meal. They pair beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete dinner. For a comforting experience, consider serving them alongside a slice of crusty French Loaf to soak up the delicious tomato sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Patti's Porcupines can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm them on the stove over low heat with a splash of water to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can use the microwave, covering the dish to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Patti'S Porcupines contains roughly 369 calories, with 3g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. 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 use brown rice instead of white rice in this recipe?
Yes, brown rice can be used instead of white rice, but be aware that it may require a longer cooking time to ensure it's fully cooked. You might need to adjust the amount of water and the simmering time to accommodate the brown rice.
Can I freeze the cooked meatballs for later use?
Absolutely! After cooking, let the meatballs cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave.
What can I serve with Patti's Porcupines?
Patti's Porcupines pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with creamy mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or a simple green vegetable like steamed broccoli. A fresh garden salad can also complement the dish nicely for a refreshing contrast.
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).