Albondigas Recipe
Description
Discover the heartwarming flavors of our Albondigas Recipe, a classic Spanish dish that brings comfort and delight to your dining table. These Spanish meatballs, known as albondigas, are made with a savory blend of ground meat, fresh herbs, and spices, simmered to perfection in a rich tomato-based sauce. Our Albondigas Recipe is a perfect choice for a cozy family meal or an impressive dinner party appetizer. Whether served as tapas or a main course, this recipe captures the essence of Spanish cuisine, combining simple ingredients with robust flavors to create a truly satisfying dish. Follow our detailed Albondigas Recipe guide to enjoy a taste of Spain in your own home, complete with tips for achieving the perfect texture and flavor in every bite.
Ingredients for Albondigas Recipe
For the Meatballs:
For the Sauce:
Instructions forAlbondigas Recipe
Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
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In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of ground beef or pork, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of milk, 1 beaten egg, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste.
Shape the Meatballs:
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Using your hands, gently mix the ingredients until well combined. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and set them aside on a plate.
Prepare the Sauce:
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In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional minute.
Add Tomatoes and Seasonings:
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Pour in 1 can of crushed tomatoes, 1/2 cup of beef broth, and 1/4 cup of dry white wine. Stir in 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1 bay leaf. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Simmer the Sauce:
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Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together. Cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Cook the Meatballs:
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Gently add the prepared meatballs to the simmering sauce. Cover the skillet and let the meatballs cook for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they are cooked through and tender.
Rest and Serve:
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Remove the skillet from the heat and allow the meatballs to rest in the sauce for 10 minutes. Discard the bay leaf before serving. Serve the Albondigas hot, garnished with additional fresh parsley if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 400kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 28g44%
- Saturated Fat 9g45%
- Cholesterol 110mg37%
- Sodium 500mg21%
- Potassium 600mg18%
- Total Carbohydrate 15g5%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 4g
- Protein 25g50%
- Vitamin A 300 IU
- Vitamin C 6 mg
- Calcium 50 mg
- Iron 2 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Albondigas Recipe Variation Options
Spicy Albondigas:
- Add finely chopped chili peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meatball mixture for a spicy kick.
Cheese-Stuffed Albondigas:
- Insert a small cube of cheese, such as Manchego or cheddar, into the center of each meatball for a gooey, cheesy surprise.
Vegetarian Albondigas:
- Substitute the meat with a mixture of cooked lentils and mushrooms, blended with breadcrumbs and seasonings for a vegetarian version.
Herb-Infused Albondigas:
- Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the meatball mixture for an aromatic variation.
Gluten-Free Albondigas:
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour in place of traditional breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Albondigas Recipe Cooking Tips
Don’t Overwork the Meat:
- Gently mix the meatball ingredients to avoid making the meatballs tough and dense.
Test the Seasoning:
- Cook a small piece of the meatball mixture before shaping all of them to ensure the seasoning is just right.
Use a Nonstick Pan:
- To prevent sticking, use a nonstick pan or ensure your skillet is well-oiled before adding the meatballs.
Simmer Gently:
- Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer to allow the meatballs to cook evenly and absorb the flavors without falling apart.
Make Ahead:
- Prepare the meatball mixture and sauce in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator, then cook them together when ready to serve.
Albondigas Recipe Serving Suggestions
Serve with Crusty Bread:
- Pair the Albondigas with crusty bread to soak up the rich, savory sauce and enhance the overall dining experience.
Over Pasta:
- Serve the meatballs over a bed of cooked pasta or spaghetti for a hearty meal that combines the best of Spanish and Italian flavors.
With Rice:
- Accompany the Albondigas with steamed white rice or Spanish rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tapas-Style:
- Serve the Albondigas as part of a tapas spread, alongside other Spanish favorites like olives, cheeses, and cured meats.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs:
- Top the meatballs with freshly chopped herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, to add a burst of color and freshness.
Reader Engagement
We’d love to hear about your experiences with our Albondigas Recipe! Have you tried making these delicious Spanish meatballs at home? What variations did you explore, and how did they turn out? Please share your thoughts, tips, and any creative twists you’ve added to the recipe in the comments below. Your feedback helps us and fellow readers discover new ways to enjoy this classic Spanish dish.
Did you make this recipe?
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can substitute ground beef or pork with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Adjust the cooking time as poultry may cook faster.
A medium-bodied red wine, such as Rioja or Tempranillo, complements the rich flavors of the Albondigas beautifully.
Yes, you can freeze the cooked meatballs and sauce in airtight containers for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Ensure the meatball mixture is well-combined but not overworked, and handle the meatballs gently when adding them to the sauce.
