Name: Ragout de Boulettes (Pork Meatball Stew) Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 6 min
Total time: 1 h 26 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: ¼ cup all-purpose flour; 2 lbs Ground Pork; 1 onion; ¼ tsp ground cloves; ¼ tsp ground cinnamon; ¼ tsp ground mustard powder; Salt and ground black pepper; ¼ cup butter; 4 cups boiling water

The Ragout de Boulettes, often translated as the Pork Meatball Stew, is a traditional dish known for its rich and comforting flavors. It's a hearty stew primarily made with pork, onions and a unique blend of spices. This recipe particularly stands out due to its use of ground cloves, cinnamon, and mustard powder which adds a certain warmth and depth to the dish. The stew is slowly simmered to perfection, ensuring all the wonderful flavors are well incorporated.

Photos of Ragout de Boulettes (Pork Meatball Stew) Recipe

The uncommon ingredient in this recipe is ground cloves, which might not be readily available in every home. Ground cloves have an intense, sweet and spicy flavor that adds a certain depth to the dish. Ground mustard, too, is a distinct ingredient, having a sharp and hot flavor. It is sometimes overlooked but is a classic addition to many recipes. When shopping, ensure you pick up these spices to ensure the authentic taste of the Ragout de Boulettes.

Ingredients for Ragout de Boulettes (Pork Meatball Stew)

All-purpose flour: This is used to coat the meatballs and also acts as a thickening agent for the stew.

Ground pork: This forms the main component of the meatballs in the stew.

Onion: Adds a touch of sweetness and is a classic addition to any stew.

Ground cloves: Adds a sweet and spicy dimension to the stew.

Ground cinnamon: Gives a warm and sweet flavor enhancing the overall taste.

Ground mustard powder: Adds a tangy and spicy flavor to the stew.

Salt and ground black pepper: Used for seasoning the meatballs and the stew.

Butter: Used for sauteing the meatballs, it also adds a rich flavor to the stew.

Boiling water: The base of the stew in which all ingredients are simmered.

One reader, Carlotta Hamblin says:

This ragout de boulettes recipe is a game-changer! The pork meatballs are so flavorful and tender, and the blend of spices is just perfect. It's a comforting and hearty dish that's become a family favorite. I highly recommend trying this recipe for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Carlotta Hamblin

Mastering the Techniques for Ragout de Boulettes

How to toast flour: Place flour in a saucepan or small skillet and heat over medium-high heat, whisking constantly for 6 to 7 minutes until light brown. Remove from heat.

How to shape meatballs: Mix pork, onion, cloves, ground cinnamon, mustard powder, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Shape the mixture into small meatballs. Sprinkle the meatballs with about half of the toasted flour.

How to brown meatballs: Melt butter in a saucepan, add meatballs, and cook until browned.

How to simmer stew: Stir in water, cover, and let simmer for 1 hour.

How To Make Ragout de Boulettes (Pork Meatball Stew)

The whole family will love this French-Canadian meatball stew. It’s made with ground pork seasoned with cinnamon, cloves, and ground mustard.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour 6 minutes

Total: 1 hour 26 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

¼cupall-purpose flour
2lbsground pork
1onion,finely chopped
¼tspground cloves
¼tspground cinnamon
¼tspground mustard powder
salt and ground black pepper,to taste
¼cupbutter
4cupsboiling water

Instructions

Place flour in a saucepan or small skillet. Heat over medium-high heat, whisking constantly for 6 to 7 minutes until light brown. Remove from heat.
Mix pork, onion, cloves, ground cinnamon, mustard powder, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Shape in small meatballs. Sprinkle the meatballs with about half of the toasted flour.
Melt butter in a saucepan, add meatballs, and cook until browned. Stir in water, cover, and let simmer for 1 hour.

Nutrition

Calories: 496.29kcal
Fat: 39.86g
Saturated Fat: 16.79g
Trans Fat: 0.31g
Monounsaturated Fat: 16.30g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.22g
Carbohydrates: 6.76g
Fiber: 0.85g
Sugar: 0.92g
Protein: 26.51g
Cholesterol: 129.20mg
Sodium: 804.64mg
Calcium: 40.64mg
Potassium: 488.07mg
Iron: 1.75mg
Vitamin A: 68.02µg
Vitamin C: 2.61mg

Expert Technique Tips for Perfecting Pork Meatball Stew

When forming the pork meatballs, try to keep them all the same size. This ensures that they cook evenly and at the same rate. If some meatballs are larger than others, they may require more cooking time and could result in some meatballs being overcooked while others are undercooked. Using a small ice cream scoop or a tablespoon can help achieve uniform size.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Pork Meatball Stew Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the meatball mixture the night before and store it in the fridge. This will save time on the day of cooking. Use a food processor: Use a food processor to chop the onions and mix the meatball ingredients quickly and efficiently. Multi-task: While the meatballs are simmering, use that time to prepare a side dish or set the table to make the most of your time in the kitchen. Invest in a good skillet: A good quality skillet will distribute heat evenly and prevent the meatballs from sticking, saving time and effort in the cooking process.

Substitute Ingredients For Ragout de Boulettes (Pork Meatball Stew) Recipe

all-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour: This substitute is suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or allergies, providing a similar texture and structure to the dish.
ground pork - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground pork, offering a lighter flavor while still providing a satisfying protein base for the stew.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can impart a milder, sweeter flavor compared to onions, adding a subtle complexity to the stew.
ground cloves - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg can provide a warm, aromatic flavor similar to cloves, enhancing the depth of the stew's seasoning.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with allspice: Allspice offers a combination of flavors reminiscent of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, adding a unique and rich dimension to the stew.
ground mustard powder - Substitute with dijon mustard: Dijon mustard can bring a tangy, slightly spicy element to the stew, complementing the pork and enhancing the overall flavor profile.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter, providing a similar richness and depth of flavor to the stew.
boiling water - Substitute with chicken or vegetable broth: Using broth instead of water can infuse the stew with added depth and savory notes, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

Presenting Ragout de Boulettes: A Delightful Pork Meatball Stew

Elevate the plating: When presenting the ragout de boulettes, focus on creating a visually appealing plate. Use fresh herbs and edible flowers to add color and vibrancy to the dish. Consider using a wide, shallow bowl to showcase the meatballs and the rich sauce.
Incorporate texture: Add a textural element to the dish by serving it with a side of crispy baguette slices or puff pastry. This will provide a delightful contrast to the tender meatballs and add a layer of sophistication to the presentation.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Opt for porcelain or ceramic dishes to serve the ragout de boulettes. The use of high-quality, elegant serving ware will enhance the perception of the dish and elevate the dining experience.
Garnish with precision: Pay attention to the finer details by garnishing the dish with a sprinkle of microgreens or a drizzle of truffle oil. These delicate touches will demonstrate precision and attention to detail, reflecting the caliber of a Michelin-starred presentation.
Focus on symmetry and balance: Arrange the meatballs and sauce with care, aiming for symmetry and balance on the plate. The visual harmony will captivate the judges and convey a sense of artistry in the presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Pork Meatball Stew

Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle, typically used for making sauces or heating liquids.
Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods.
Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for whipping and mixing ingredients together.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for combining ingredients, mixing batters, and preparing various recipes.
Spatula: A flat, flexible tool used for lifting, flipping, and spreading ingredients.
Measuring cup: A tool used to measure liquid or dry ingredients accurately.
Cover: A lid or cover used to enclose a pan or pot during cooking.
Food processor: A kitchen appliance used for chopping, blending, and pureeing ingredients.
Cutting board: A durable board used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Knife: A sharp tool used for slicing, dicing, and chopping various ingredients.

Proper Storage and Freezing Methods for Ragout de Boulettes

Let the ragout de boulettes cool completely before storing or freezing.
For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled stew to an airtight container and keep it refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.
When ready to serve, reheat the stew in a saucepan over medium heat until it reaches the desired temperature, stirring occasionally.
If you want to freeze the pork meatball stew:
- Divide the cooled stew into portion-sized freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion during freezing.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Place the containers or bags in the freezer and store for up to 3 months.
To reheat frozen ragout de boulettes:
- Thaw the frozen stew in the refrigerator overnight.
- Transfer the thawed stew to a saucepan and reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature.
- If the stew appears too thick after thawing, you can add a little water or broth to adjust the consistency while reheating.
Note: The texture of the meatballs may change slightly after freezing and thawing, but the flavor of the dish will remain delicious.

How To Reheat Leftover Ragout de Boulettes

Reheat the ragout de boulettes in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce is simmering. This method ensures even heating and prevents the meatballs from drying out or falling apart.
If you prefer a quicker reheating method, transfer the leftover stew to a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval, until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce is hot.
For a crispy exterior on the meatballs, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the meatballs to a baking dish, spooning some of the sauce over them to keep them moist. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the meatballs to crisp up slightly.
If you have a lot of leftover sauce and only a few meatballs, you can reheat the sauce separately in a saucepan until simmering, then add the meatballs and cook until they are heated through. This method prevents the meatballs from overcooking and becoming tough.
For a unique twist, slice the leftover meatballs and reheat them in a skillet with a little olive oil until crispy. Serve the crispy meatball slices over a bed of mashed potatoes or polenta, and spoon the reheated sauce over the top for a delicious and visually appealing meal.

Fascinating Facts About Ragout de Boulettes

The pork meatball stew, also known as ragout de boulettes, is a traditional French-Canadian dish that has been enjoyed for generations. It is a hearty and comforting meal that is perfect for cold winter nights. The combination of ground pork, cloves, cinnamon, and mustard powder creates a rich and flavorful stew that is sure to please the whole family. This dish is often served with crusty bread or over a bed of rice, making it a versatile and satisfying meal. Enjoying ragout de boulettes is a great way to experience the delicious flavors of French-Canadian cuisine.

Budget-Friendly Cooking: Is Ragout de Boulettes Cost-Effective?

This pork meatball stew recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Ground pork is an affordable protein, and the addition of common pantry spices keeps the cost low. The use of flour as a thickening agent is budget-friendly, and the recipe yields a substantial amount of stew, making it suitable for a family meal. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-20, depending on the prices of ingredients. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is This Pork Meatball Stew Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The ragout de boulettes recipe, while flavorful, may not be the healthiest choice due to several factors:

The recipe uses a significant amount of ground pork, which is high in saturated fat and calories. Consuming excessive amounts of saturated fat can increase the risk of heart disease and other health issues.
The recipe calls for butter, which is also high in saturated fat and calories.
The recipe does not include any vegetables, which are essential for a balanced and nutritious meal.

However, the recipe does have some positive aspects, such as the use of spices like cloves, cinnamon, and mustard powder, which can provide some health benefits and add flavor without additional calories.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace some or all of the ground pork with lean ground turkey or chicken, which are lower in saturated fat and calories.
Use a healthier cooking oil, such as olive oil, instead of butter to brown the meatballs.
Incorporate vegetables into the dish, such as carrots, celery, and bell peppers, to increase the nutrient content and add fiber.
Reduce the amount of added salt and rely more on herbs and spices for flavor.
Serve the ragout de boulettes with a side of whole grains, such as brown rice or quinoa, to add more fiber and nutrients to the meal.

Editor's Take on Ragout de Boulettes: A Comforting Stew

This recipe for ragout de boulettes (pork meatball stew) is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of ground pork and a blend of warm spices like cloves and cinnamon creates a rich and aromatic base for the meatballs. The addition of the toasted flour adds a nutty depth to the stew, while the simmering process allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The result is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. It's a classic recipe that is sure to impress with its rustic charm and delicious taste.

Enhance Your Ragout de Boulettes (Pork Meatball Stew) Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and chives, topped with a dollop of butter.

Roasted Vegetables: Colorful medley of roasted vegetables, drizzled with balsamic glaze and sprinkled with fresh herbs.

Garlic Bread: Warm and crispy garlic bread, brushed with herb-infused olive oil and sprinkled with parmesan cheese.

Exploring Alternative Stew Recipes Similar to Ragout de Boulettes

Creamy Chicken Alfredo: Create a creamy and indulgent chicken alfredo pasta dish with a homemade alfredo sauce and tender chicken breast. Serve with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a delicious meal.

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad: Whip up a healthy and flavorful quinoa salad with a variety of roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Toss with a zesty vinaigrette dressing for a satisfying and nutritious dish.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Prepare a refreshing and tropical chia pudding by combining ripe mango chunks, coconut milk, and chia seeds. Let it chill in the refrigerator until set, then garnish with shredded coconut for a delightful dessert or snack.

Appetizer and Dessert Suggestions to Complement Ragout de Boulettes

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and crispy for a delicious bite-sized treat.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with bruschetta topped with a variety of fresh and vibrant ingredients such as tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze. Serve on toasted baguette slices for a burst of flavor in every bite.

Desserts:

Tiramisu: Indulge in layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone cheese, and a dusting of cocoa powder. This classic Italian dessert is the perfect combination of rich and light flavors.

Panna Cotta: Savor the silky smoothness of this delicate Italian dessert. Topped with a vibrant fruit compote or a drizzle of sweet caramel, this creamy custard is a delightful way to end any meal.

Why trust this Ragout de Boulettes (Pork Meatball Stew) Recipe:

This recipe for ragout de boulettes (pork meatball stew) is a delightful and comforting dish that will surely impress your taste buds. The combination of ground pork, onion, and aromatic spices like ground cloves, ground cinnamon, and ground mustard powder creates a rich and flavorful stew. The method of toasting the flour adds a nutty depth to the dish, and the slow simmering process allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Trust this recipe to deliver a hearty and satisfying meal that will warm your soul.

If you're a fan of this Ragout de Boulettes (Pork Meatball Stew) Recipe, be sure to share your experience and any tips you might have in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

What is the best way to serve this pork meatball stew?

This pork meatball stew is best served hot, and it pairs wonderfully with a side of fluffy mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Can I substitute the ground pork with another type of meat?

Yes, you can definitely substitute the ground pork with ground beef, ground turkey, or even a meat substitute like lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian option.

How can I adjust the seasoning to suit my taste preferences?

Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding more or less of the ground cloves, cinnamon, and mustard powder. Taste the stew as it simmers and adjust the seasoning accordingly.

Can I make the meatballs in advance and freeze them for later use?

Absolutely! You can make the meatballs in advance and freeze them before cooking. When you're ready to make the stew, simply thaw the meatballs in the refrigerator overnight and proceed with the recipe as directed.

Is there a way to make this stew gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this stew gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour for toasting and thickening the stew. Additionally, ensure that all other ingredients used are gluten-free as well.