Prepared Meatballs Originate from Italy
Let's dive into the world of meatballs - a dish that screams hearty comfort food. While in the US, we're used to devouring them over spaghetti or tucked inside a sub, our Italian counterparts fancy 'em differently. In Italy, you'll find these herby orbs of joy paired with nothing more than a Basic Tomato Sauce, crusty bread, some red wine, and perhaps a side of polenta.
Now, when it comes to buying the key ingredient, don't skimp on the ground meat. Aim for quality stuff from a reliable butcher, and don't shy away from a turkey-beef-pork combo. For the turkey, go for the more flavorful thigh meat over breast.
With everything prepped, let's tackle the recipe. First, soak torn bread in milk and let it absorb, then create a garlic-fennel paste. Mix it all together with the meats, onions, eggs, and herbs, and finish by shaping the meat mixture into golf ball-sized balls.
Brown the meatballs in a pan, let them hang out in a Dutch oven full of tomato sauce, and voilà - you've got yourself a brimming pot of flavorful meatballs ready to serve. If you're up for it, try pairing them with a glass of St. Francis Old Vines Zinfandel. It's comforting, fruity, and will provide the perfect companion for your meaty meal.
P.S. If you're ever in Italy, remember - it's all about keeping it simple and showcasing the quality of the ingredients. These meatballs are meant to be enjoyed in their purest form. Want more info on traditional ways of serving Italian meatballs? Check out our fun facts below!
Fun Facts:- In Italy, meatballs are often served as a second course, paired with polenta or bread for dipping in the accompanying sauce.- You'll find meatballs simmering in a rich tomato sauce, called ragù or sugo, in many Italian households.- Some Italian regions offer meatballs in stews or soups.- In modern Italian delis, you might come across meatball sandwiches reminiscent of the Italian-American style.- The emphasis in Italy is on simplicity and showcasing the quality of ingredients, so the focus is on enjoying the meatballs as they are.
- Italian meatballs, a cultural delight, are renowned for their simplicity, highlighting the quality of foods used.
- If you're looking to replicate an authentic Italian dish, consider using a combination of turkey, beef, and pork for the meatballs.
- To elevate your Italian meatball experience, maybe pair them with a red wine like St. Francis Old Vines Zinfandel, a suitable companion to this hearty comfort food.
