Meatballs with Potatoes

Meatballs with potatoes is a comforting and delicious dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any mealtime. The hearty mix of ground meat, vegetables, and spices creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills the kitchen as it simmers. This recipe blends the flavors of sautéed onions, carrots, and bell peppers with tomato paste, adding a rich depth to the dish. The addition of soft, boiled potatoes provides a starchy balance, while the meatballs, infused with rice and garlic, offer a delightful tenderness. This one-pot meal is not only practical and easy to prepare but also economical, making it a perfect choice for a family dinner. The spices can be customized to suit various tastes, and the dish can be adapted for different dietary needs. Whether served as a main course or with a variety of accompaniments, meatballs with potatoes are sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy this recipe for a fulfilling, home-cooked meal that brings both joy and nourishment.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 500 g ground meat
• 3 onions
• 100 g quick-cooking rice
• 3 garlic cloves
• 10 potatoes
• 2 carrots
• 1 bell pepper
• 2 tbsp tomato paste

Spices:

• Salt
• Pepper

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 50 minutes (Prep & Cook)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Chop the onions, slice the carrots, and dice the bell pepper. Set them aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a pan, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
3. Add Carrots and Bell Peppers: Introduce the sliced carrots and diced bell peppers to the pan. Stir and cook until slightly softened.
4. Incorporate Tomato Paste: Add the tomato paste to the pan and mix well, cooking for another minute to blend the flavors.
5. Transfer to Pot: Pour the sautéed mixture into a large pot. Add enough water to cover the vegetables.
6. Add Potatoes: Peel and quarter the potatoes. Add them to the pot and bring the liquid to a gentle boil.
7. Prepare Meatball Mixture: Grate two onions and garlic cloves into a bowl. Combine with the ground meat and quick-cooking rice.
8. Mix Well: Use your hands to thoroughly mix the ingredients until well combined for a uniform meatball texture.
9. Form the Meatballs: Shape small portions of the meat mixture into meatballs using your hands.
10. Add Meatballs to Pot: Carefully place the formed meatballs into the pot with the potatoes and vegetables.
11. Season: Sprinkle salt and pepper into the pot to taste. Additional spices like paprika or cumin can also be added if desired.
12. Cover and Simmer: Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes.
13. Check Potatoes and Rice: Stir occasionally and check if the potatoes are fork-tender and the rice within the meatballs is cooked.
14. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, ensuring a balanced flavor profile.
15. Serve Warm: Remove from heat when all the elements are cooked through. The potatoes should be tender, and the meatballs fully cooked.
16. Optional Garnish: Garnish with chopped parsley or dill for an added freshness.
17. Stir Gently Before Serving: Gently stir the dish before spooning it into serving bowls or onto plates.
18. Cool Slightly: Allow a few moments for the dish to cool slightly before serving.
19. Final Check: Ensure everything is seasoned and cooked, bringing it to the table fresh and aromatic.
20. Enjoy the Meal: Serve to family or guests with love and enjoy the hearty flavors together.

Tips

• Substitute Meats: Use turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Add Greens: Spinach or kale can be added for extra nutrition.
• Vary the Spices: Customize with your favorite spice blend for a unique taste.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approximately 400 kcal per serving
• Protein: 23 g
• Fats: 15 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g

Variations

• Vegetarian: Swap meat with lentils or chickpeas.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure rice and spices are certified gluten-free.
• Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or hot paprika for heat.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Pair with a fresh green salad or steamed broccoli.
• Breads: Serve with warm, crusty bread or dinner rolls.
• Beverage: A light white wine or sparkling water complements well.

Best Places

• Café de Flore - A creatively styled café known for its exquisite French flavors. Location: 172 Boulevard Saint-Germain, Paris, France.
• Trattoria da Enzo - A charming Italian spot famous for home-style meatballs. Location: Via dei Vascellari, 29, Rome, Italy.
• The Meatball Shop - Offers diverse meatball creations in a laid-back setting. Location: 200 9th Ave, New York, USA.
• Papurino - Known for its cozy atmosphere and innovative meatball dishes. Location: Alkotmány u. 19, Budapest, Hungary.
• Taverna Opa - Greek flavors are showcased in delightful meatball appetizers. Location: Pointe Orlando, 9101 International Dr, Orlando, USA.
• Moscow-Delhi - Offers eclectic Russian and international cuisines. Location: Malaya Bronnaya St, 28, Moscow, Russia.
• El Nacional - Combines Spanish classic dishes in an elegant environment. Location: Passeig de Gràcia, 24, Barcelona, Spain.
• Bodega dos de Mayo - Enjoy vibrant meatball tapas and seafood. Location: Plaza de la Gavidia, 6, Seville, Spain.
• La Boca - Celebrates Argentine flavors with tasty meatball offerings. Location: 870 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans, USA.
• Akasaka Umaya - Japanese izakaya showcasing various meatball styles. Location: 3 Chome-12-19 Niikura Bldg, Akasaka, Tokyo, Japan.