Mongolian Beef Meatballs are a tasty treat that brings a delightful mix of flavors. With their juicy texture and sweet soy sauce, they’re sure to please everyone at the table.
These meatballs are perfect for a cozy dinner or a fun party snack! I love pairing them with rice or noodles to soak up all that yummy sauce. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option. You can also substitute with ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter flavor. Beyond that, ground pork is great too for a richer taste!
Breadcrumbs: I often use plain breadcrumbs, but you can use panko for extra crunch or even crushed crackers if you’re in a pinch. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
Green Onions: Not only great for flavor, they add a nice color. If you don’t have green onions, scallions or chives can work too. For a milder taste, you might try finely chopped onions instead.
Sesame Oil: This oil adds a lovely nuttiness. If you’re out, you can use vegetable or canola oil, but you’ll miss that signature flavor. Just a bit of toasted sesame oil can add similar vibes.
Hoisin Sauce: This sauce brings a sweet and tangy kick. If you don’t have it, try a mix of soy sauce, peanut butter, and a touch of sugar. While it won’t be identical, it will still be tasty!
How Do I Form Meatballs Perfectly?
Getting the right meatball shape is key for even cooking! Here’s how to do it:
- Use slightly damp hands to prevent sticking while shaping the mixture.
- Take a small amount (about the size of a golf ball) and roll it gently between your palms.
- Avoid overmixing the meat; this keeps them tender. Just mix until combined.
Everyone loves a well-formed meatball, and this technique really helps with that!
How Can I Cook the Meatballs Evenly?
To achieve evenly cooked meatballs, follow these steps:
- Heat your skillet to the right temperature—medium heat is best.
- Give each meatball enough space in the pan; avoid crowding.
- Turn them gently every couple of minutes to brown all sides.
This method will prevent any meatballs from being undercooked while others get too crispy!
30-Minute Mongolian Beef Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (for cooking)
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (for sauce)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
For Serving:
- Cooked white rice
- Steamed broccoli
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 10 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 25-30 minutes for a delicious meal. You’ll enjoy tasty meatballs with a rich sauce served over rice and broccoli!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Meatball Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, half of the chopped green onions, minced garlic, grated ginger, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, egg, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
2. Form the Meatballs:
Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a plate or tray as you go to keep things tidy.
3. Cook the Meatballs:
Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs to the skillet. Cook them for about 7-8 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure they brown evenly on all sides and are cooked through.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
While your meatballs are cooking, grab a small bowl and whisk together the hoisin sauce, the remaining tablespoon of soy sauce, and rice vinegar until smooth. This will give your meatballs a delicious flavor!
5. Coat the Meatballs:
When the meatballs are fully cooked, pour the sauce over them in the skillet. Gently toss the meatballs to coat them well in the sauce, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is nice and heated through.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
To serve, scoop some cooked white rice onto each plate and add a generous helping of meatballs on top. Don’t forget to place some steamed broccoli on the side for a pop of color and nutrition!
7. Garnish:
Finish off your delicious meal by sprinkling the remaining chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the top. Enjoy your tasty Mongolian beef meatballs!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that turkey tends to be more delicate, so be gentle while forming the meatballs and cooking them.
What Can I Use Instead of Hoisin Sauce?
If you don’t have hoisin sauce, you can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 tablespoon of soy sauce with 1 tablespoon of peanut butter or almond butter, and a dash of honey. This won’t be a perfect match, but it will add a similar sweet-savory flavor.
How to Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave or warm them gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist.
Can I Freeze These Meatballs?
Yes, these meatballs freeze well! Lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating to enjoy later!
