Wednesday 13 July 2011

Dinner Tonight: Mid-week Meatballs with Spicy Tomato Sauce

Mid-week Meatballs in Spicy Tomato Sauce

When we're juggling work and life Monday to Friday most of us don't have time to slave over the stove. I think food should be quick, tasty but most of all make you feel good. These meat-balls tick all the boxes, are idiot proof and make for the perfect post-run meal.






 You'll need:
  •      A pack of minced beef (10% fat is a good choice )
  •     Breadcrumbs
  •     1 egg
  •     An onion
  •     A 450g tin of chopped tomatoes
  •     Half a jar of passata
  •     An onion
  •     A few cloves of garlic
  •     Fresh or dried herbs
  •     A good splash of red wine (optional)
  •     Some balsamic vinegar
  •     Salt, black pepper 
  •     1 tsp sugar
  •     2 tsp Paprika (optional)

Finely dice an onion and fry in a little oil along with the crush garlic for 2 minutes. Then, put the lid on the pan and allow the onions to sweeten for 5 mins on a medium heat. Meanwhile, in a large mixing bowl, combine the mince, breadcrumbs egg and herbs. Finally, mix in in the onion and garlic. Using your hands, shape into small balls. Heat a little oil and add the meatballs to the pan. I find its best to leave them for a few minutes otherwise they tend to self-destruct in the pan! Once the meat has begun to brown, carefully turn the meatballs over (BBQ tongs can be quite handy for this) then add the passata and chopped tomatoes. Give the sauce a good seasoning, add the  paprika, sugar, a good glug of red wine and vinegar if you have any knocking around in the cupboard. Turn the heat down, put the lid on and leave for 25 mins (15 will be fine if you're pressed for time) I think meatballs are the perfect companion for spaghetti, pitta bread or baked potatoes.