Blue Cheese Meatball Stew

This hearty and delicious stew combines tender meatballs with a rich and savory sauce, highlighted by the distinct flavor of blue cheese. The dish pairs perfectly with your choice of pasta, making it a comforting meal for any occasion. The sweet and tangy tomato sauce is enhanced by the addition of sautéed onions, colorful bell peppers, and fragrant garlic. These ingredients come together to create a sauce that envelops the meatballs, keeping them juicy and flavorful. The meatballs themselves are a delightful blend of ground meat and blue cheese, offering a rich and creamy texture that melts in your mouth. A bit of paprika and a touch of sugar add depth and balance to the sauce. This dish not only satisfies the taste buds but also fills the home with irresistible aromas. Whether you're cooking for family or entertaining guests, this Blue Cheese Meatball Stew is sure to be a hit. Enjoy it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a side of your favorite pasta to complete the experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 800g can of chopped tomatoes in their juice
• 3 medium bell peppers, sliced into strips
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 onions, sliced thin
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 30g butter

Spices and Sauces

• 2 teaspoons paprika powder
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• 1-2 teaspoons sugar
• 1 beef bouillon cube
• 40g parsley, leaves and stems chopped separately

Meatballs

• 700g ground beef or mixed ground meat
• 200-250g blue cheese (DorBlu cheese)
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• 5 tablespoons breadcrumbs + extra for coating
• 2 eggs, whites lightly beaten for coating, yolks separated
• 2 small cloves of garlic, minced
• Reserved parsley leaves from sauce
• Additional pasta of your choice for serving

Additional

• Pasta of your choice (bow ties, butterflies, etc.)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Time

• Total: 120 minutes (Prep and Cook Time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Start with the sauce: In a pot, melt the butter and add olive oil.
2. Add onions: Fry on medium heat until they become tender.
3. Mix in tomato paste, followed by the garlic. Stir and cover the pot, cooking on low heat until onions are soft.
4. Introduce the peppers: Fry on high heat briefly, then lower the heat, cover, and cook until soft.
5. Add chopped tomatoes: Stir and let it come to a boil.
6. Season with spices: Add paprika powder, salt, pepper, and sugar. Stir well.
7. Enhance the flavor: Add the beef bouillon cube and let the sauce simmer gently.
8. Prepare the meatballs: Mix the ground meat with seasoning, garlic, parsley, and breadcrumbs.
9. Cube the blue cheese: Form small round pieces from it.
10. Form the meatballs: Divide the meat mixture and wrap around each piece of cheese to create balls.
11. Coat each meatball with beaten egg white and then breadcrumbs.
12. Layer meatballs in the sauce: Place them in a single layer, cover with some sauce, then another layer on top.
13. Simmer gently: Increase heat, then reduce to a low setting for about 45 minutes to 1 hour.
14. Minimal stirring: Avoid stirring to keep the meatballs intact; gently move them using a wooden spoon handle.
15. Boil pasta separately while the stew is cooking.
16. Serve meatballs and sauce over the prepared pasta.
17. Garnish with fresh parsley.
18. Optionally bake: You can also bake it in a ceramic dish with sauce poured over a single layer of meatballs.
19. Garnish before serving: Sprinkle with any remaining fresh herbs.
20. Enjoy the aromatic and comforting meal.

Tips

• For a stronger cheese flavor: Increase the amount of blue cheese in the meatballs.
• Avoiding cheese leakage: Coating with breadcrumbs helps prevent cheese from leaking.
• Pasta choice: Use any firm pasta that can hold the sauce well.
• Additional flavor: Try adding a splash of red wine to the sauce for depth.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 550 per serving
• Protein: 30g
• Fats: 35g
• Carbs: 25g

Variations

• Vegetarian option: Substitute meat with plant-based mince and adjust seasonings.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta.
• Lighter version: Use leaner meat and reduce the amount of cheese.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with: A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.
• Garnish with: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese or additional parsley.

Best Places

1. The Blue Door Café - A vibrant eatery known for their exceptional blue cheese dishes. Location: 6513 Brecksville Rd, Cleveland, USA.
2. Gastronomica - Offers a dynamic culinary experience with an exquisite cheese selection. Location: 52 Brownswood Rd, London, UK.
3. Le Fromagerie - A cozy spot for cheese lovers, featuring authentic French cheese platters. Location: 9 Moxon St, London, UK.
4. Cheese Heaven - Famous for its extensive range of artisanal cheeses. Location: 45 Collins St, Melbourne, Australia.
5. Delizie di Formaggio - Offers traditional Italian cheese dishes served in a charming setting. Location: Via Roma 10, Rome, Italy.
6. The Cheese Bar - Specializes in creative cheese-inspired cuisine. Location: Camden Market, London, UK.
7. Bleu Cuisine - A unique café blending traditional recipes with a gourmet touch. Location: 123 Cheese St, Paris, France.
8. Fromage Paradis - Renowned for its immersive cheese tastings and workshops. Location: 78 Rue de Chevreul, Lyon, France.
9. Dairy Dream - A hidden gem offering exceptional cheese pairings. Location: 214 Cheese Lane, New York, USA.
10. Artisan Cheese Shop - Curates the best local and international cheeses. Location: 198 Park St, San Francisco, USA.