Spanish Meatballs (Albondigas)

May 11, 2023May 11, 20230 2

Spanish Meatballs (Albondigas) with a zesty tomato sauce and a red wine twist

by The Chefin Main

Prep

20 min

Cook

35 min

Ready In

55 min

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

365

Sugar

Fat

23g

Spanish Meatballs (Albondigas) are a traditional Spanish dish that is typically served as a tapa or a main course. These meatballs are made with ground beef, eggs, onion, and spices, then simmered in a zesty tomato sauce with a twist of red wine. The meatballs are tender and juicy, and the sauce is bursting with flavor. Serve with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal that is sure to satisfy.

Instructions

1.	In a bowl, mix together the ground beef, egg, and chopped onion until well combined.
2.	Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
3.	In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
4.	Add the meatballs to the pan and brown them on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5.	Once the meatballs are browned, remove them from the pan and set aside.
6.	In the same pan, add the chopped tomatoes, bouillon cubes, red wine, and black pepper.
7.	Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
8.	Return the meatballs to the pan and simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through.

PROS

These Spanish Meatballs (Albondigas) are packed with flavor and are sure to satisfy.

The zesty tomato sauce is a perfect pairing, and the addition of red wine adds a depth of flavor that is hard to resist.

These meatballs are also a great source of protein.

CONS

These meatballs can be high in calories and fat, depending on the type of ground beef used.

Be sure to choose lean beef to keep the calorie count down.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

These meatballs are a great source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.
The tomatoes used in the zesty tomato sauce are also a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants, which help to boost the immune system and reduce inflammation.
The addition of onion adds a punch of flavor and can also aid in reducing inflammation.

	1 lb ground beef
	1 egg
	1 small onion , finely chopped
	1 lb ripe tomatoes , peeled and finely chopped ( boil for 1 minute , shock in ice water , then peel )
	2 bouillon cubes
	2 tablespoons olive oil
	1/2 cup red wine
	fresh ground black pepper