This recipe is for Vietnamese Meatballs with Chili Sauce, a wonderful fusion of flavors that will transport your taste buds to Southeast Asia. The meatballs, made with ground beef and pork, are spiced with fish sauce, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes, and enhanced by the fragrant zest of lime and fresh herbs. They're baked to perfection and served with an Asian chili sauce that's both spicy and tangy.
There are a few ingredients in this recipe that you might not have in your pantry but are essential to achieve the unique flavors. The fish sauce, often used in Southeast Asian cuisines, gives a distinct umami depth to the dish. Asian chili sauce, another key ingredient, adds the spicy kick, and panko, or Japanese breadcrumbs, helps bind the meatballs while keeping them moist.
Vietnamese Meatballs with Chili Sauce Ingredients
Eggs: Provide binding for the meatballs.
Fish sauce: Adds a savory, umami flavor.
Garlic: Enhances the flavor profile.
Ginger: Adds a spicy, aromatic taste.
Red pepper flakes: Gives a spicy kick.
Scallion: Brings a mild onion flavor.
Lime zest: Adds a tangy, fresh taste.
Cilantro leaves: Provides a fresh, citrusy note.
Mint: Gives a cool, refreshing flavor.
Ground beef and pork: Main protein of the meatballs.
Panko: Japanese breadcrumbs for binding and texture.
Unsalted peanuts: Adds a crunchy texture.
Asian chili sauce: Brings spiciness to the sauce.
Soy sauce: Gives a salty, umami flavor to the sauce.
Lime juice: Adds acidity to the sauce.
Sugar: Balances the acidity and spiciness in the sauce.
One reader, Ashlin Wheat says:
These Vietnamese meatballs with chili sauce are a game-changer! The flavors are so vibrant and the meatballs are incredibly juicy. The sauce adds a perfect kick, and the fresh herbs and peanuts on top are the cherry on the cake. I can't get enough of this recipe!
Techniques for Crafting Vietnamese Meatballs With Chili Sauce
How to make the meatballs: Combine the eggs, fish sauce, garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes, scallions, lime zest, cilantro, and mint in a large bowl. Whisk to combine, then add the beef, pork, and panko. Mix until evenly combined, then roll the mixture into golf ball-sized balls and arrange on a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F for 25 minutes, flipping once, until browned and cooked through.
How to make the sauce: Whisk together the Asian chili sauce, soy sauce, fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar in a medium bowl until the sugar is completely dissolved. Taste and adjust the chili sauce to your preference.
How to serve: Drizzle the meatballs with the sauce and sprinkle with scallions, cilantro, mint, and peanuts. Be judicious with the sauce as it is strong in flavor.
Make ahead: The meatballs can be made ahead of time and refrigerated in a tightly sealed container for 2 to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave when ready to serve.
Freezer-friendly instructions: The meatballs can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave when ready to serve.
How To Make Vietnamese-Style Meatballs with Chili Sauce
Each bite of these Vietnamese meatballs is packed with umami from the refreshing herbs! It is served alongside a spicy sauce for a more tasteful meal.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Meatballs:
- 2large eggs
- 3tbspfish sauce
- 2garlic cloves,minced
- 1tbspfresh ginger,finely grated
- ¼tspred pepper flakes,crushed
- ¼cupscallion,finely chopped
- 2tsplime zest
- 3tbspfresh cilantro leaves,chopped, plus more for serving
- 3tbspfresh mint,chopped, plus more for serving
- ¾lb85% lean ground beef
- ¾lbground pork
- 1cuppanko
- ½cupunsalted peanuts,chopped, for serving
For Sauce:
- 2tbspAsian chili sauce,such as Sambal Oelek, or Asian chili garlic sauce
- ¼cupsoy sauce
- 2tbspfish sauce
- ¼cuplime juice
- ¼cupsugar
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F and set an oven rack in the middle position.
Meatballs:
-
In a large bowl, combine the eggs, fish sauce, garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes, scallions, lime zest, cilantro, and mint. Whisk to combine. Add the beef, pork, and panko.
-
Using your hands, mix until evenly combined. Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized balls and arrange on an unlined baking sheet.
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Bake for 25 minutes, flipping once with a metal spatula halfway through the cooking time, until the meatballs are browned and cooked through.
Sauce:
-
Whisk all of the ingredients together in a medium bowl. Be sure the sugar is completely dissolved and not stuck to the bottom of the bowl. Taste and add more chili sauce if desired.
-
Serve the meatballs drizzled with the sauce and sprinkled with scallions, cilantro, mint, and peanuts. Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 455.82kcal
- Fat: 28.55g
- Saturated Fat: 9.01g
- Trans Fat: 0.49g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 12.62g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.60g
- Carbohydrates: 21.66g
- Fiber: 2.25g
- Sugar: 10.80g
- Protein: 28.38g
- Cholesterol: 141.38mg
- Sodium: 1949.12mg
- Calcium: 80.55mg
- Potassium: 598.18mg
- Iron: 3.41mg
- Vitamin A: 42.80µg
- Vitamin C: 6.94mg
Technique Tip for Perfect Vietnamese Meatballs
When making the meatballs, it's important to not overwork the mixture. Overmixing can result in tough and dense meatballs. Instead, gently combine the ingredients until they are just mixed together. This will ensure your meatballs are tender and juicy. Additionally, when baking the meatballs, flipping them halfway through the cooking time ensures they brown evenly on all sides. This not only adds to the presentation but also enhances the flavor.
Time-Saving Tips for Vietnamese Meatballs With Chili Sauce
Prep ahead: Prepare the meatball mixture the night before and refrigerate it. This will save time on the day of cooking.
Use a food processor: Use a food processor to chop the garlic, ginger, and herbs quickly and evenly.
Double the batch: Make a double batch of meatballs and freeze half for a future quick and easy meal.
Organize ingredients: Measure and prepare all ingredients before starting to cook to streamline the process.
Bake instead of fry: Baking the meatballs instead of frying saves time and effort while still achieving delicious results.
Substitute Ingredients For Vietnamese Meatballs with Chili Sauce Recipe
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Flax eggs can be used as a vegan alternative to eggs, providing binding and moisture to the meatballs.
fish sauce - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can be used as a substitute for fish sauce to provide a savory and umami flavor to the meatballs.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a similar flavor without the need for chopping or mincing.
ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can be used as a substitute for fresh ginger, providing a convenient alternative with a similar flavor profile.
crushed red pepper flakes - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can be used as a substitute for red pepper flakes to add heat and spice to the meatballs.
scallion - Substitute with chives: Chives can be used as a substitute for scallions, providing a mild onion flavor to the meatballs.
lime zest - Substitute with lemon zest: Lemon zest can be used as a substitute for lime zest, providing a similar citrusy flavor to the meatballs.
fresh cilantro leaves - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley can be used as a substitute for cilantro, providing a similar herbaceous flavor to the meatballs.
fresh mint - Substitute with fresh basil: Fresh basil can be used as a substitute for mint, providing a similar herbaceous flavor with a hint of sweetness to the meatballs.
85% lean ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef, providing a lighter option for the meatballs.
ground pork - Substitute with ground chicken: Ground chicken can be used as a substitute for ground pork, providing a lighter and leaner option for the meatballs.
panko - Substitute with breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute for panko, providing a similar texture and binding agent for the meatballs.
unsalted peanuts - Substitute with cashews: Cashews can be used as a substitute for peanuts, providing a creamy and nutty flavor to the meatballs.
asian chili sauce - Substitute with sriracha: Sriracha can be used as a substitute for Asian chili sauce, providing a spicy and tangy flavor to the sauce.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari can be used as a substitute for soy sauce, providing a gluten-free alternative with a similar umami flavor.
lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice can be used as a substitute for lime juice, providing a similar citrusy flavor to the sauce.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a substitute for sugar, providing a natural sweetener with a hint of floral flavor to the sauce.
Presenting Vietnamese Meatballs With Chili Sauce
Elevate the plating: When presenting the Vietnamese meatballs, consider using a minimalist approach to plating. Arrange the meatballs in a circular or linear pattern, allowing each meatball to stand out individually.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Introduce pops of color to the plate by garnishing with fresh herbs and lime wedges. The vibrant green of the herbs and the bright citrusy hue of the lime will add visual appeal to the dish.
Balance the elements: Create a harmonious balance by incorporating contrasting textures. Consider serving the meatballs on a bed of crisp lettuce or cabbage to add a refreshing crunch to each bite.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to draw attention to the meatballs. This will allow the dish to exude elegance and sophistication.
Emphasize the sauce: Drizzle the chili sauce in a deliberate and artistic manner, ensuring that it complements the meatballs without overpowering them. The sauce should be strategically placed to enhance the overall visual presentation.
Add a touch of sophistication with garnishes: Sprinkle the dish with finely chopped peanuts and scallions to add a touch of sophistication and a delightful crunch to each bite.
Consider the vessel: Select a plate that complements the colors of the dish and allows the meatballs to take center stage. Opt for a vessel that enhances the overall presentation without overshadowing the culinary masterpiece.
Essential Tools for Making Vietnamese Meatballs
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients and mixing the meatball mixture.
Baking sheet: A baking sheet is used to arrange and bake the meatballs in the oven.
Metal spatula: A metal spatula is used to flip the meatballs while they are baking and to serve them.
Whisk: A whisk is used to combine the ingredients for the sauce.
Medium bowl: A medium bowl is used to mix and whisk the ingredients for the sauce.
Food processor: A food processor can be used to finely chop the peanuts for the meatball mixture.
Measuring spoons: Measuring spoons are used to accurately measure and add the ingredients for the meatballs and the sauce.
Oven: The oven is used to bake the meatballs at 400°F.
Storing and Freezing Vietnamese Meatballs With Chili Sauce
- To store the vietnamese meatballs in the refrigerator, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the cooled meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper until they are solid, about 2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the meatballs to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference. The frozen meatballs will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- To reheat the refrigerated or frozen meatballs, place them on a microwave-safe plate and microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a preheated 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
- The chili sauce can be stored in a separate airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Give it a good stir before serving, as some separation may occur.
- It is not recommended to freeze the chili sauce, as the texture and flavor may change upon thawing. For best results, prepare the sauce fresh when needed.
Reheating Leftover Vietnamese Meatballs With Chili Sauce
To reheat leftover vietnamese meatballs in the oven, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Cover the meatballs loosely with another piece of foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil cover for the last 2-3 minutes to crisp up the exterior of the meatballs.
For a quicker reheating method, use the microwave. Place the meatballs in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. This will help keep the meatballs moist during reheating. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be sure to check the meatballs every 30 seconds to avoid overheating, which can cause them to become tough and rubbery.
If you have leftover chili sauce, reheat it separately in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir occasionally until the sauce is warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave the sauce in a microwave-safe bowl for 30-60 seconds, or until heated to your desired temperature.
For a crispy exterior, you can also reheat the meatballs in a skillet. Add a small amount of oil to a non-stick skillet and heat over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until they are heated through and the exterior is crispy. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
If you have frozen the meatballs, it's best to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This will ensure even reheating and help maintain the texture of the meatballs. Once thawed, follow any of the above reheating methods.
Interesting Fact About Vietnamese Meatballs With Chili Sauce
The Vietnamese meatballs with chili sauce recipe is a popular dish in Vietnamese cuisine. It combines the flavors of fish sauce, garlic, ginger, and chili sauce to create a delicious and savory dish. The meatballs can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for a few days, making it a convenient option for meal prep. Additionally, the meatballs can be frozen for up to three months, offering a quick and easy meal option for busy days. This dish is a great way to enjoy the bold and vibrant flavors of Vietnamese cuisine in a convenient and accessible manner.
Budget-Friendly Vietnamese Meatballs With Chili Sauce
This Vietnamese meatballs with chili sauce recipe offers a high degree of cost-effectiveness for a household. The combination of ground beef and pork provides a budget-friendly protein base, while the use of fresh herbs and spices adds depth of flavor without breaking the bank. The versatility of the dish allows for easy adaptation to suit varying budgets and preferences. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-25, making it a budget-friendly option for a flavorful and satisfying meal. Overall Verdict: 9/10
Is This Vietnamese Dish Healthy?
The Vietnamese meatballs with chili sauce recipe is a delicious blend of flavors, but it may not be the healthiest option due to some of its ingredients and preparation methods. Here's an analysis of the recipe:
- The recipe includes a significant amount of red meat (beef and pork), which is high in saturated fat and can contribute to heart disease and other health issues when consumed in excess.
- The use of panko breadcrumbs adds extra carbohydrates and calories to the meatballs.
- The sauce contains a considerable amount of sugar, which can lead to excessive calorie intake and potential health problems when consumed regularly.
- On the positive side, the recipe incorporates various herbs and spices, such as garlic, ginger, cilantro, and mint, which offer some health benefits and add flavor without extra calories.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace a portion of the red meat with lean ground turkey or chicken to reduce the overall saturated fat content.
- Use whole wheat breadcrumbs or rolled oats instead of panko to increase the fiber content and provide a healthier carbohydrate source.
- Reduce the amount of sugar in the sauce by half and add more lime juice or a sugar substitute to maintain the balance of flavors.
- Incorporate more vegetables into the meatball mixture, such as finely chopped carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers, to increase the nutrient density and fiber content.
- Bake the meatballs on a wire rack placed on a baking sheet to allow excess fat to drip away during cooking.
- Serve the meatballs with a side of steamed or stir-fried vegetables to create a more balanced meal.
Editor's Take on This Vietnamese Meatball Recipe
The Vietnamese meatballs with chili sauce recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The combination of beef, pork, and aromatic herbs creates a rich and savory base, while the chili sauce adds a punch of heat and tanginess. The meatballs are perfectly cooked, with a crispy exterior and juicy interior. The sauce complements the meatballs beautifully, adding a layer of complexity to the dish. The recipe's make-ahead and freezer-friendly options make it convenient for meal planning. Overall, this recipe is a winner, offering a balance of bold flavors and practicality.
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Why trust this Vietnamese Meatballs with Chili Sauce Recipe:
This recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, combining the richness of 85% lean ground beef and ground pork with the crunch of unsalted peanuts and the aromatic freshness of fresh cilantro and mint. The use of fish sauce and soy sauce enhances the savory umami notes, while the chili sauce and lime juice provide a zesty kick. The meticulous attention to detail in the instructions ensures that the meatballs are perfectly cooked and full of flavor. Trust in the harmonious blend of ingredients and the thoughtful preparation to deliver a truly delightful dining experience.
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