Every time I make these Sweet and Sour Meatballs my mind wanders to so many places. I think of all the past Christmas parties, New Year’s Eve parties, birthday parties, baby showers, wedding showers, fall get-togethers…the list goes on and on. I’ve used this recipe for every former occasion I can think of, at least once. More than once most of those times because, well, why would you not want these any time an opportunity arises?
Sweet and Sour Meatballs are a great appetizer. I usually keep mine in a crock-pot during get-togethers, so they stay warm. The pineapple and green pepper are a great combination, and they are complementary to the meatballs in taste and color.
We also love eating Sweet and Sour Meatballs over rice as a meal. When I make this as a meal, I double the glaze, so there is enough to soak through the rice. This sweet and sour “gravy” is delicious, and you’ll want to make sure you have plenty. I only double the glaze when I’m serving it over rice.
Making homemade meatballs does take some time. But in the end, there is no comparison in texture and flavor. Some time ago, I didn’t have as much time for preparation and decided to pick up a reputable brand of meatballs from the store. I was appalled at how rubbery the texture was. Gross. Next time, I’ll only make these when I have enough time to prepare the meatballs myself. There will be no more trying to rush them along in time for an impromptu get-together. The sacrifice in the quality of meat isn’t worth it.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs. ground round
- 3/4 cup bread crumbs
- 1 onion
- 2 eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ginger, optional
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon shortening
For the glaze:
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 13 oz. can pineapple tidbits, drained, reserve juice
- 1/3 cup vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 green peppers, chopped
Instructions
- Thoroughly mix the beef, bread crumbs, onion, eggs, salt, pepper, ginger, and milk.
- Shape meat mixture into small balls, about 1 inch.
- Melt shortening in a skillet; brown and cook meatballs. Meatballs will be firm to the touch when done. When done, remove and drain on paper towels.
For the glaze:
- Mix cornstarch and sugar together; stir in the reserved pineapple juice, vinegar and soy sauce until smooth. Pour into a pan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
- Add meatballs, pineapple, and green pepper to the glaze and heat through.
Martha says
Kim; in the glaze recipe, you have 1/2 brown sugar, I am assuming it is a 1/2 c.brown sugar?
Kim says
Yes, 1/2 cup is correct. Thank you, Martha, for pointing that out. I’m going to correct it now. :)
joyce says
Love thiese meatballs! This will be one of my go to recipes I ‘m sure. Took a pot of these meatballs to a potluck and everyone loved them. Perfect combo of sweet and sour, and the pineapple and green peppers make the dish look so colorful too.
Kim says
I’m so happy you love them Joyce! Thanks for your sweet comment.
joyce says
Made these yummy meatballs again! This time I doubled the glaze and served it over rice. A complete meal! Just as good when reheated the next day for leftovers! Yum!!
Kim says
So glad to hear this, Joyce! Thanks for coming back and letting us know!
Erica says
Made this last night for my family, so yummy! This recipe will be added to my favorite collection!!!
Kim says
So glad they were a hit Erica! I love that they made it into your favorite collection!
Iris says
mamma che fame! (I had to say it in Italian because it betetr transmits immediacy :D)Do you know that one of the most known and oldest typical recipes of my hometown is meatballs just like these? The only difference is that women use to put them in tomato sauce “ragout” and put them on pasta on Sunday lunches. With tons of grated parmesan cheese on top! :)