Porcupines (Hamburg Balls)
Porcupines are hearty hamburger balls combined with rice, simmered in a tomato-based sauce, offering comforting flavors perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, uncooked rice, salt, pepper, and chopped onion together.
- Form the mixture into balls.
- Brown the meatballs in a skillet and keep covered.
- Add 1/2 cup water and a can of whole tomatoes to the skillet.
- Simmer, covered, for 1 hour.
- Add more water if needed during simmering.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating garlic or using cooked rice instead of uncooked. If you're looking for a healthier option, ground turkey can be a great substitute for ground beef. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference, and adding some Italian herbs can enhance the taste. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
These porcupine meatballs are delicious served over a bed of rice or pasta. Pair them with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the sauce. They also go well with sides like Twice Baked Potatoes(Grandchildren'S Favorite) or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, you can use a microwave or warm them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep them moist. They can also be frozen for up to three months, just ensure to cool them completely before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Porcupines (Hamburg Balls) contains roughly 112 calories, with 2g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 672mg per serving (29% 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 instant rice instead of uncooked rice?
Yes, you can use instant rice, but you will need to adjust the cooking time as it cooks much faster. Add it to the meat mixture and reduce the simmering time to about 30 minutes to ensure the rice is fully cooked without becoming mushy.
What can I use instead of whole tomatoes?
If you don't have whole tomatoes, crushed or diced tomatoes work perfectly as a substitute. You can also use tomato sauce or even tomato paste mixed with water for a different consistency. Just adjust the liquid in the skillet accordingly to maintain the right sauce thickness.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe can easily be made gluten-free by ensuring that the ground beef and any added seasonings are certified gluten-free. Additionally, you can substitute the rice with quinoa or another gluten-free grain, which will still provide a hearty texture.
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).