Sweet And Sour Meat Balls(Appetizer)
Sweet and tangy meatballs glazed with grape jelly and chili sauce, perfect as an appetizer for parties or casual gatherings, offering a flavorful and easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat chili sauce and grape jelly to boiling point.
- Mix ground beef with salt, garlic powder, and other seasonings.
- Soak crackers in water, squeeze out excess moisture, then add to the meat mixture along with the egg.
- Shape the mixture into tiny meatballs and add them to the boiling sauce.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer slowly for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, try adding a tablespoon of soy sauce to the meat mixture. If you don't have grape jelly, apricot or raspberry preserves can work just as well. Ensure the meatballs are uniform in size for even cooking. For a little heat, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes to the sauce. This recipe is a great companion for other beef recipes like Beef Mushroom Stew.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Sweet And Sour Meatballs as a delightful appetizer at your next gathering, alongside toothpicks for easy serving. They pair well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider serving them over rice or with a side of bread to soak up the sauce. They also complement dishes like Sweet Barbecued Meatballs.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place meatballs in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or sauce to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave them in a covered dish, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet And Sour Meat Balls(Appetizer) contains roughly 786 calories, with 26g protein, 136g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (52% of the Daily Value), iron (36% of the Daily Value), and potassium (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2136mg per serving (93% 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 a different type of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time slightly since leaner meats may cook faster.
What can I serve with these meatballs?
These meatballs are versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. They go well with rice, noodles, or even on a sub roll for a meatball sandwich. For a lighter option, serve with a side of steamed broccoli or a garden salad.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them before cooking. Just shape them and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, simply add them to the bubbling sauce and follow the remaining 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).