Porcupine Meat Balls And Chili Sauce
Porcupine Meat Balls with chili sauce offer savory beef and rice balls simmered in a flavorful tomato-based chili sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine chili powder, garlic salt, corn syrup, oregano, and tomato juice in a pot to make the sauce.
- In a bowl, mix ground beef, quick-cooking rice, chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, chopped celery, egg, mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Blend the mixture well and roll into meat balls.
- Place the meat balls into the sauce.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also substitute the quick-cooking rice with quinoa for a nutritious boost. If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry. For added flavor, mix in a teaspoon of smoked paprika or Worcestershire sauce. Adjust the chili powder for desired heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the porcupine meatballs over a bed of rice or alongside crusty bread for a hearty meal. Pair with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced plate. These meatballs also make a great filling for a sub sandwich. For a comforting twist, try them with a side of Barbecue Beans(Home Economics) for a delicious combo.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway. For longer storage, freeze the meatballs and sauce in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Porcupine Meat Balls And Chili Sauce contains roughly 1331 calories, with 16g protein, 336g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (196% of the Daily Value), and calcium (146% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1047mg per serving (46% 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 the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance. Form the meatballs and place them on a baking sheet, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. You can also freeze them before cooking; just thaw before adding to the sauce.
What can I use instead of tomato juice?
If you don't have tomato juice, you can use crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce mixed with water to reach a similar consistency. Adding a little vegetable or chicken broth can also enhance the flavor.
How do I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, increase the amount of chili powder or include diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes in the meat mixture. You can also serve with hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy extra spice.
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).