How to make mini meatballs in tomato sauce?

Hi there,

Did you know that making mini meatballs in tomato sauce can actually be surprisingly easy? In this blog post we take you on a tasty journey and share all the secrets to making this delicious dish yourself. Whether you want to impress your guests or just fancy a tasty dinner, with our step-by-step guide you'll be a kitchen hero in no time. Are you ready to learn how to put these little flavor bombs on the table? Let's get cooking!

Ingredients for mini meatballs in tomato sauce

1. Minced meat:

To make delicious mini meatballs in tomato sauce you need fresh minced meat. We recommend using half-and-half minced meat from the local butcher for a full flavor.

2. Breadcrumbs:

Breadcrumbs are essential in binding the meatball and providing a light texture. Choose a fine breadcrumb from, for example, the Bolletje brand for the best result.

3. Herbs:

Add flavor to your meatballs with a combination of fresh herbs such as parsley, garlic powder and pepper. Our favorite spice mix is Verstegen's minced spices.

4. Tomato Sauce:

The tomato sauce forms the basis of this dish and provides a deliciously juicy sauce in which to simmer the meatballs. Choose an organic tomato sauce from the Heinz brand for the best taste.

Variations and Extra Additions:

• Cheese filling: Add a surprising twist to your meatballs by hiding a piece of mozzarella in the center of each meatball.
• Paprika powder: Give your meatballs an extra kick by adding a pinch of paprika powder to the meat mixture.
• Sausage Rolls: Turn the meatballs into a festive meal by rolling them in puff pastry and serving as mini sausage rolls.

Enjoy these tasty mini meatballs in tomato sauce and experiment with variations to your own taste and preference! Let us know which combination is your favorite.

Preparing the meatballs

Forming the balls

1. Start by mixing ground beef (eg Koopmans Fresh Minced Beef) with breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion and garlic, a pinch of salt and pepper and a beaten egg.
2. Roll the meat mixture in your hands into small balls of equal size. Make sure your hands are lightly greased to prevent sticking.
3. Place the formed meatballs on a baking tray lined with baking paper and place them in the refrigerator to firm up.

Baking the balls

1. Heat a pan over medium heat and add a dash Becel Original add margarine.
2. Cook the meatballs in batches so they have enough room to cook evenly.
3. Turn the balls regularly so that they become nice and golden brown on all sides.
4. As soon as the meatballs are cooked and reach a core temperature of 71°C, remove them from the pan.

Tips for preserving flavor and preventing dryness

• Use a combination of ground beef and pork for juicier meatballs.
• Add a little ketchup or tomato puree to the mince mixture for extra flavor and juiciness.
• Do not overbake the meatballs to avoid dryness; keep an eye on the core temperature.
• Make a sauce from stock, tomato sauce and herbs to cook the meatballs for even more flavor.

By following these simple steps and applying the helpful tips, you'll enjoy delicious, juicy meatballs that are perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your meal!

Making the tomato sauce

Tomato sauce is a versatile and tasty base for many dishes, including the classic dish of meatballs in tomato sauce. In this article we share how you can prepare a delicious tomato sauce to simmer your meatballs step by step. We also discuss various spice combinations and flavor enhancers to take the taste of your sauce to a higher level.

Step 1: Ingredients for the tomato sauce

Before you start, make sure you have the right ingredients. Here's a list of what you'll need:

• Ripe tomatoes (preferably San Marzano tomatoes for the best flavor)
• Onion
• Garlic
• Olive oil
• Tomato paste
• Fresh herbs such as basil and oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step 2: Preparing the tomato sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a pan and fry the finely chopped onion and garlic until soft.
2. Add the chopped tomatoes and simmer until they soften.
3. Then add the tomato puree and stir well.
4. Season the sauce with salt, pepper and fresh herbs of your choice.
5. Let the sauce simmer over low heat until it reaches the desired thickness.

Step 3: Herb combinations and flavor enhancers

To make your tomato sauce extra tasty, you can experiment with different spice combinations and flavor enhancers. Here are some suggestions:

• Add a pinch of dried chili flakes for some spice.
• Use a dash of red wine to deepen the flavor.
• Try adding a little sugar to balance the sour taste of tomatoes.
• Add a few anchovy fillets for an umami boost.

With these tips and tricks you can prepare a flavorful tomato sauce that's perfect for simmering your meatballs. Experiment with different ingredients and find the combination that best suits your taste!

Enjoy cooking and don't forget to taste as you go, so you can always adjust the taste to your preference. Enjoy your meal!

Serving mini meatballs in tomato sauce

Serving mini meatballs in tomato sauce is a tasty and easy option for both formal dinners and informal gatherings. Here are some tips on how to best serve this dish:

1. Serving dishes and presentation

• Choose beautiful serving dishes or earthenware to present the mini meatballs in tomato sauce.
• Use small dishes or bowls for individual portions for an elegant look.
• Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil as a garnish for a colorful presentation.

2. Side dishes and garnishes

• Serve the mini meatballs with a side of spaghetti or rice for a filling meal.
• Add some freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the meatballs for extra flavor.
• A fresh salad on the side can complete the meal and provide a balanced taste experience.

3. Drinks and wine suggestions

• Pair the mini meatballs in tomato sauce with a light red wine such as Pinot Noir or Sangiovese for a harmonious combination.
• For non-alcoholic options, consider freshly squeezed orange juice or a carbonated soft drink for a refreshing touch.

Variation ideas for experimental chefs

For those who like to experiment in the kitchen, here are some creative variation ideas to spice up the classic mini meatballs in tomato sauce:

1. Stuffed mini meatballs

• Make an incision in each meatball and fill it with a piece of mozzarella or goat cheese for a creamy surprise in every bite.

2. Asian twist

• Add Asian flavors by adding ginger, soy sauce and scallions to the tomato sauce for a new dimension of flavor.

3. Vegetarian option

• Make vegetarian meatballs with lentils or chickpeas and serve them with a rich tomato sauce for a delicious meat-free alternative.

With these suggestions you can enjoy mini meatballs in tomato sauce in a simple and creative way and broaden your culinary horizons. Have fun cooking!

A tasty ending

After following these instructions you are ready to make your own delicious mini meatballs in tomato sauce. Enjoy this tasty dish and give free rein to your creativity for a unique twist! Enjoy your meal and have fun cooking!

Frequently asked questions about mini meatballs in tomato sauce