Beef Meatballs Simmered with Peas and Tomatoes
Introduction
Beef meatballs simmered with peas and tomatoes is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together the rich flavors of tender meatballs and fresh vegetables. It’s an easy recipe that the whole family will love!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. It combines simple ingredients found in your pantry, making it a budget-friendly meal. The meatballs are packed with flavor, and the added peas and tomatoes create a healthy dish that is satisfying and nutritious. Plus, it pairs well with rice, couscous, steamed potatoes, or fresh bread!
How to Make Beef Meatballs Simmered with Peas and Tomatoes
Ingredients:
- 400 g of ground beef
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons of breadcrumbs
- 1 finely chopped onion
- 2 crushed garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon of cumin (optional)
- Salt
- Pepper
- Chopped parsley or coriander (to taste)
- 1 can of diced tomatoes (400 g)
- 200 g of peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 sliced onion
- 1 teaspoon of tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
- 1 glass of water (about 150 ml)
Directions:
Prepare the Meatballs: In a bowl, mix all the meatball ingredients together. Form them into walnut-sized balls. Brown them in a pan with a little oil just to color them; they don’t need to be fully cooked.
Prepare the Sauce: In a pot, sauté the sliced onion in olive oil until it is translucent. Add the tomato paste, paprika, and diced tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper. Pour in a glass of water, then add the browned meatballs. Let it simmer on low heat for 20 minutes.
Add the Peas: Toss the peas into the sauce and continue cooking for another 10 minutes until everything is tender and the sauce is slightly thickened.
How to Serve Beef Meatballs Simmered with Peas and Tomatoes
Serve the meatballs hot with your choice of rice, couscous, steamed potatoes, or fresh bread to soak up the delicious sauce. This dish makes a great family meal.
How to Store Beef Meatballs Simmered with Peas and Tomatoes
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving again. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips to Make Beef Meatballs Simmered with Peas and Tomatoes
- For extra flavor, let the meatballs marinate for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Try mixing in different herbs or spices according to your taste.
- If you like a little heat, add some chili flakes to the sauce.
Variations
You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Additionally, you can add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for more nutrition.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen meatballs instead?
Yes, frozen meatballs can be a quick alternative. Just cook them according to the package instructions and add them to the simmering sauce until heated through.
2. What can I serve with this dish?
This dish is great with rice, couscous, steamed potatoes, or crusty bread for dipping.
3. Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, you can use lentils or plant-based meat alternatives to create vegetarian meatballs. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Enjoy making and savoring your Beef Meatballs Simmered with Peas and Tomatoes!
