Hawaiian meatballs are a delicious fusion of sweet and savory flavors, combining tender, juicy meatballs with a vibrant pineapple glaze. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun party appetizer. The sauce, made with pineapple juice, brown sugar, and soy sauce, delivers a tropical sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory meatballs. The addition of bell peppers and onions gives the dish extra texture and flavor, making it a satisfying meal when served over rice or noodles.
Hawaiian Meatballs Recipe
Ingredients:
For the meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef (or pork)
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the sauce:
- 1 cup pineapple juice (from a can of pineapple chunks)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (from the can)
Instructions:
- Prepare the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, soy sauce, ginger, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1-inch in diameter.
- Cook the meatballs: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it. Cook the meatballs, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through (about 10-12 minutes). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add the bell pepper and onion, cooking for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened. In a small bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and garlic powder. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the vegetables.
- Thicken the sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer, then stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) to thicken the sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce becomes glossy.
- Combine meatballs and sauce: Add the cooked meatballs and pineapple chunks to the skillet, stirring to coat everything in the sauce. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Serve the Hawaiian meatballs over rice or noodles and garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
These Hawaiian meatballs are a delightful combination of sweet and savory, perfect for family meals or entertaining!
