This Asian Meatballs and Carrot Rice recipe is a delightful blend of flavors. The succulent meatballs are made from dark-meat turkey and seasoned with cilantro, soy sauce, sriracha, sugar, and garlic. They are served with a delicious honey garlic sauce and paired with tender carrot rice. This dish is a true taste of Asian cuisine and is sure to be a hit at your dinner table.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are common and probably already in your kitchen. However, dark-meat turkey might need a trip to the butcher's section of your supermarket. Panko breadcrumbs, a type of flaky breadcrumb, and sriracha, a type of hot sauce, are also used in this recipe. If you do not have them at home, they can be found in the Asian foods section of your local supermarket.
Ingredients for Asian Meatballs and Carrot Rice
Long-grain white rice: This type of rice is ideal for this dish because it cooks up fluffy and doesn't clump together.
Carrots: They add a touch of sweetness and crunch to the rice.
Dark-meat turkey: It's juicy and flavorful, perfect for meatballs.
Cilantro leaves: They lend a fresh and aromatic flavor.
Soy sauce: It gives a savory, umami flavor to the meatballs.
Sriracha: This hot sauce adds a spicy kick.
Garlic cloves: They give a punchy, aromatic flavor.
Egg: It helps to bind the meatball ingredients together.
Honey: It's used in the sauce to give a sweet contrast to the soy sauce.
Lime wedges: Squeezed over the top just before eating, they add a zesty freshness.
Sesame seeds: They are a common garnish in Asian cooking, adding a little crunch.
One reader, Benton Ruffin says:
The Asian meatballs and carrot rice recipe was a delightful surprise! The meatballs were bursting with flavor, and the honey garlic sauce added a perfect touch of sweetness. The carrot rice was a unique and tasty twist. This recipe is a definite winner for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Cooking Techniques for Flavorful Asian Meatballs
How to prepare the rice and carrot mixture: Boil the rice in salted water, then add the carrots and let it stand before fluffing the rice with a fork.
How to make the meatballs: Combine the panko breadcrumbs, turkey, cilantro, soy sauce, sriracha, egg, sugar, garlic, black pepper, salt, and water in a bowl. Gently mix to combine and form into tablespoon-sized meatballs before broiling.
How to make the honey garlic sauce: Mix together the honey, soy sauce, and garlic in a small bowl. Drizzle the sauce over the meatballs and toss to combine.
How to serve: Top the meatballs with chopped cilantro and sesame seeds if desired, and serve with rice and lime wedges.
How To Make Asian Meatballs and Carrot Rice
Panko breadcrumbs and sriracha sauce give this meatball recipe Asian flavors. Prepare the rice and give this flavorful Asian meatballs recipe a try.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Rice:
- 1cuplong-grain white rice
- 2carrots,peeled and shredded
- salt and pepper,to taste
For Meatballs:
- ¾cuppanko breadcrumbs
- 1½lbdark-meat turkey,ground
- ⅓cupfresh cilantro leaves,chopped
- 4tspsoy sauce
- 2tspsriracha,optional
- 4tspsugar
- 1garlic clove,large, minced
- 1egg
- cooking spray
For Honey Garlic Sauce:
- 3tbspsoy sauce
- ¼cuphoney
- 1garlic clove,minced
- salt and pepper,to taste
- lime wedges,for serving
- sesame seeds,for garnish, optional
- chopped cilantro,for garnish, optional
Instructions
Meatballs:
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Preheat broiler.
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In a medium saucepan, bring salted water to a boil. Add rice and return to a boil.
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Cover, reduce to a simmer and cook until rice is tender about 15 minutes.
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Remove from heat and add the carrot on top. Let stand, covered, 8 minutes, then stir in carrot and fluff rice with a fork.
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In the meantime, in a medium bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, turkey, cilantro, soy sauce, sriracha, egg, sugar, garlic, black pepper, salt, and water.
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Gently mix to combine and form into tablespoon-sized meatballs.
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Place the meatballs in a single layer on a foil-lined baking sheet that has been coated in cooking spray.
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Coat the tops of the meatballs with cooking spray. Broil the meatballs about 4 to 6 inches from the heating element for 10 to 15 minutes or until meatballs are cooked through.
Honey Garlic Sauce:
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In a small bowl mix together the honey, soy sauce and garlic. Drizzle the sauce over the meatballs and toss to combine.
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Top the meatballs with chopped cilantro and sesame seeds if desired and serve with rice and lime wedges.
Nutrition
- Calories: 621.56kcal
- Fat: 15.02g
- Saturated Fat: 3.18g
- Trans Fat: 0.11g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 5.84g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.86g
- Carbohydrates: 75.99g
- Fiber: 2.28g
- Sugar: 23.83g
- Protein: 44.67g
- Cholesterol: 162.46mg
- Sodium: 1200.10mg
- Calcium: 84.90mg
- Potassium: 686.12mg
- Iron: 2.94mg
- Vitamin A: 316.94µg
- Vitamin C: 6.05mg
Pro Tip: Mastering the Art of Tender Meatballs
When forming the meatballs, avoid overmixing the ingredients. 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 broiling the meatballs, keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. The high heat from the broiler can quickly cook the meatballs, so it's important to check them frequently.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Asian Meatballs and Carrot Rice
Prep ahead: Prepare the meatball mixture and rice in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This will save you time when you're ready to cook the dish.
Use a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly chop the carrots and cilantro for the rice, and to mince the garlic for both the meatballs and the honey garlic sauce.
Double the batch: Make a larger batch of meatballs and rice, then freeze the extra portions for a quick and convenient meal on a busy day.
Streamline cleanup: Clean as you go to minimize the mess in the kitchen. This will make the post-cooking cleanup much faster and more efficient.
Invest in quality tools: Quality kitchen tools such as sharp knives, efficient food processors, and non-stick baking sheets can significantly reduce prep and cooking time.
Substitute Ingredients For Asian Meatballs and Carrot Rice Recipe
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long-grain white rice – Substitute with jasmine rice: Jasmine rice has a similar texture and flavor to long-grain white rice, making it a suitable substitute for this recipe.
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dark-meat turkey – Substitute with ground chicken: Ground chicken can be used as a lean alternative to dark-meat turkey, providing a similar texture and flavor in the meatballs.
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panko breadcrumbs – Substitute with regular breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute for panko breadcrumbs, providing a similar binding and texture to the meatballs.
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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.
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soy sauce – Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce and can be used as a substitute in this recipe.
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sriracha – Substitute with chili garlic sauce: Chili garlic sauce can be used as a substitute for sriracha, providing a similar spicy and garlicky flavor to the meatballs.
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sugar – Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener in place of sugar, adding a touch of sweetness to the meatballs.
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garlic clove – Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a convenient alternative with a similar flavor profile.
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egg – Substitute with flaxseed egg: A flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) can be used as a vegan substitute for eggs in the meatball mixture.
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cooking spray – Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used to grease the baking sheet or pan as an alternative to cooking spray.
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soy sauce – Substitute with coconut aminos: Coconut aminos can be used as a soy sauce alternative, providing a gluten-free and lower-sodium option for the honey garlic sauce.
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honey – Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used as a substitute for honey, adding a natural sweetness to the honey garlic sauce.
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lime wedges – Substitute with lemon wedges: Lemon wedges can be used as a substitute for lime wedges, providing a similar citrusy garnish for the dish.
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sesame seeds – Substitute with chopped peanuts: Chopped peanuts can be used as a substitute for sesame seeds, adding a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the dish.
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chopped cilantro – Substitute with chopped scallions: Chopped scallions can be used as a substitute for cilantro, providing a fresh and mild onion flavor to the dish.
Presentation Tips for Asian Meatballs and Carrot Rice
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Elevate the rice: Mold the cooked rice into a small circular shape using a ramekin or a mold to create a visually appealing base for the meatballs.
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Garnish with carrot ribbons: Use a vegetable peeler to create thin, long carrot ribbons and delicately place them on top of the rice for a pop of color and texture.
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Arrange the meatballs: Place the cooked meatballs on top of the rice in a circular pattern, ensuring they are evenly spaced and visually appealing.
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Drizzle with honey garlic sauce: Carefully drizzle the honey garlic sauce over the meatballs, allowing it to cascade down the sides of the meatballs and onto the rice for a stunning presentation.
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Sprinkle with sesame seeds: Sprinkle a pinch of sesame seeds over the meatballs to add a touch of elegance and a nutty flavor to the dish.
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Garnish with fresh cilantro: Add a final touch of freshness by sprinkling some fresh cilantro leaves over the meatballs for a vibrant and aromatic finish.
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Serve with lime wedges: Place small lime wedges on the side of the plate to add a citrusy element and a pop of color to the presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Recipe
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Saucepan: A deep cooking vessel with a handle and a lid, typically used for boiling, simmering, and making sauces.
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Medium bowl: A bowl of moderate size, used for mixing and combining ingredients.
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Baking sheet: A flat, metal sheet used for baking and broiling foods in the oven.
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Foil: Aluminum foil, a thin, pliable sheet of metal used for wrapping, covering, and lining cooking surfaces.
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Cooking spray: A non-stick cooking spray used to coat pans and baking sheets to prevent food from sticking.
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Fork: A utensil with prongs used for stirring, mixing, and fluffing food.
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Small bowl: A smaller-sized bowl used for mixing and preparing sauces and dressings.
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Whisk: A kitchen tool used for blending, whipping, and beating ingredients together.
Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Asian Meatballs and Carrot Rice
- To store leftover asian meatballs and carrot rice, allow them to cool completely to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- When ready to reheat, place the meatballs and rice in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through, stirring the rice occasionally to ensure even heating.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the meatballs and rice separately:
- Place the cooled meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the meatballs to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- To freeze the carrot rice, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. Label with the date and freeze for up to 1 month.
- To reheat frozen meatballs, place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them in 30-second intervals until warm.
- To reheat frozen rice, place it in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval, until the rice is heated through and soft. You may need to add a tablespoon or two of water to help rehydrate the rice if it seems dry.
- When reheating frozen meatballs and rice together, it's best to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This will help ensure even heating and prevent the rice from becoming mushy.
How To Reheat Leftover Asian Meatballs and Carrot Rice
- To reheat leftover asian meatballs and carrot rice, start by placing the rice in a microwave-safe bowl and adding a splash of water. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the rice is heated through and steaming.
- For the meatballs, you have a few options:
- Microwave method: Place the meatballs in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the meatballs are heated through.
- Oven method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the meatballs are heated through.
- Stovetop method: Place the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water or chicken broth. Cover the skillet and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the meatballs are heated through.
- If you have leftover honey garlic sauce, reheat it in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave the sauce in a microwave-safe bowl for 30-60 seconds, or until heated to your liking.
- Once the rice, meatballs, and sauce are heated, assemble your dish by placing a scoop of rice on a plate, topping it with the meatballs, and drizzling the warm honey garlic sauce over the top.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, sesame seeds, and a squeeze of lime for a burst of fresh flavor.
- Enjoy your reheated asian meatballs and carrot rice as a delicious and satisfying meal!
Surprising Fact About Asian Meatballs and Carrot Rice
The recipe for Asian meatballs and carrot rice is a delicious and healthy option for a meal. The combination of turkey meatballs with a flavorful honey garlic sauce, served alongside carrot-infused rice, creates a balanced and satisfying dish. This recipe incorporates a variety of flavors, including soy sauce, sriracha, and cilantro, to create a unique and tasty experience. The use of fresh ingredients such as garlic, lime, and sesame seeds adds a vibrant touch to the dish. Whether you're looking for a new recipe to try or want to explore Asian-inspired cuisine, this dish offers a delightful culinary experience. Enjoy!
Budget-Friendly: Is This Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?
This Asian meatballs and carrot rice recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as dark-meat turkey, soy sauce, and rice, are generally affordable and readily available. The use of carrots and fresh cilantro adds nutritional value without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20. The overall verdict rating for this recipe would be 9 out of 10 for its balance of cost, flavor, and nutritional value.
Is This Asian-Inspired Dish Healthy?
The Asian meatballs and carrot rice recipe is a relatively healthy dish with some room for improvement. The recipe incorporates lean dark-meat turkey, which is a good source of protein and lower in fat compared to beef or pork. The addition of carrots to the rice provides a serving of vegetables and adds fiber, vitamins, and minerals to the dish. The use of fresh cilantro, garlic, and lime wedges also contributes to the overall nutritional value.
However, there are a few aspects of the recipe that could be modified to make it even healthier:
- Reduce the amount of sugar in the meatball mixture or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to decrease the overall sodium content
- Increase the proportion of vegetables by adding more carrots or incorporating other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini into the meatballs or rice
- Opt for brown rice instead of white rice to increase the fiber content and provide more complex carbohydrates
To further enhance the nutritional value of this dish, consider the following suggestions:
- Serve the meatballs and rice with a side salad or steamed vegetables to increase the overall vegetable intake
- Use whole wheat panko breadcrumbs for added fiber and nutrients
- Incorporate additional herbs and spices, such as ginger or lemongrass, to boost flavor without relying on salt or sugar
- Experiment with different lean proteins, such as ground chicken or tofu, for variety and to accommodate different dietary preferences or restrictions
Editor's Take: My Honest Opinion on This Asian-Inspired Recipe
The Asian meatballs and carrot rice recipe is a delightful fusion dish that combines the savory flavors of turkey meatballs with the sweetness of honey garlic sauce. The use of cilantro, soy sauce, and sriracha adds depth to the meatballs, while the carrot-infused rice provides a colorful and nutritious base. The balance of flavors and textures in this dish is impressive, and the addition of lime wedges and sesame seeds adds a refreshing and aromatic touch. Overall, this recipe offers a harmonious blend of Asian-inspired ingredients that will surely tantalize the taste buds.
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Why trust this Asian Meatballs and Carrot Rice Recipe:
This Asian meatballs and carrot rice recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, showcasing the essence of Asian cuisine. The use of dark-meat turkey provides a rich and succulent base for the meatballs, while the inclusion of soy sauce and sriracha infuses the dish with a perfect balance of savory and spicy notes. The incorporation of fresh cilantro and sesame seeds adds a refreshing and aromatic touch. Additionally, the method of incorporating carrots into the rice offers a creative and nutritious twist. Trust in this recipe for a memorable and satisfying Asian-inspired meal.
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