Waikiki Balls(Lamb)
Waikiki Balls (Lamb) are savory meatballs glazed with a sweet and tangy pineapple sauce. The combination of spiced lamb, pineapple, and green peppers creates a vibrant flavor profile perfect for casual dinners or entertaining guests. This dish pairs beautifully with rice and offers a delightful culinary twist.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lb. ground lamb ⓘ
- 2/3 cup cracker crumbs ⓘ
- 1/3 cup minced onion ⓘ
- 1 egg ⓘ
- 1 1/2 tsp. salt ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. ginger ⓘ
- 1/4 cup milk ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon shortening ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/2 cup brown sugar ⓘ
- 13.5 oz. can pineapple tidbits
- 1/3 cup vinegar ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce ⓘ
- 1/2 cup chopped green pepper ⓘ
Instructions
- Mix ground lamb, cracker crumbs, minced onion, egg, salt, ginger, and milk in a bowl.
- Shape the mixture into balls using a tablespoon.
- Melt shortening in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Brown and cook the meatballs until evenly cooked.
- Remove meatballs and keep warm.
- Pour fat from the skillet, leaving about 1 tablespoon if necessary.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and brown sugar.
- Stir in reserved pineapple syrup, vinegar, and soy sauce until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into the skillet and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens and boils.
- Boil and stir for 1 minute.
- Add the warmed meatballs, pineapple tidbits, and chopped green pepper to the skillet and heat through.
- Serve hot with rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a different flavor, try substituting ground beef or turkey for the lamb, or add minced garlic for more depth. If you don't have cracker crumbs, you can use breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes as a substitute. Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar based on your taste preference. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Serving Suggestions
These Waikiki Balls are delicious served hot over a bed of rice, which soaks up the flavorful sauce. Pair with a crisp salad or steamed broccoli for a complete meal. They also make a great appetizer for gatherings or parties, similar to the festive appeal of Fruitcake Bars. Garnish with fresh herbs for added color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Waikiki Balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to keep them moist, or microwave for 1-2 minutes, checking for warmth throughout. Avoid overcooking to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Waikiki Balls(Lamb) contains roughly 562 calories, with 23g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1542mg per serving (67% 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 in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef, turkey, or chicken for the lamb. Each will give a slightly different flavor profile, so choose based on your preference. Adjust the seasoning accordingly since different meats may have varying levels of richness.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat to your Waikiki Balls, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the meat mixture. You can also add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick, enhancing the overall flavor without overpowering the dish.
What can I serve with Waikiki Balls?
These meatballs pair beautifully with steamed rice or quinoa, which complement the sweet and tangy sauce. You might also consider serving them with a side of stir-fried vegetables or a light cucumber salad to balance the richness. They also work well as a filling for wraps or sandwiches.
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).