If you’re looking for a comforting and playful twist on classic meatballs, you’re in for a treat with porcupine meatballs.
These little bundles of joy are not only delightful to eat but also fun to make.
The name comes from the long grains of rice that stick out when cooked, resembling a porcupine’s quills.
This recipe is a family favorite that combines ground beef with rice and flavorful seasonings, all topped off with a simple sauce.
It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a casual family gathering.
Let’s dive right into making these tasty meatballs!
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
Porcupine meatballs are the charm of the dinner table.
They are easy to prepare, require simple ingredients, and are a wholesome meal that everyone will love.
The combination of beef and rice makes it hearty, while the addition of seasonings gives it that extra zing.
You can whip these up in under an hour, and they work great with your favorite side dishes.
Plus, they bring a touch of fun and nostalgia to mealtime that the whole family can appreciate.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450 g) lean ground beef 85/15
- ½ small yellow onion finely diced
- ½ cup (100 g) rice long-grain
- 1 large egg lightly beaten
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon celery salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) canola oil for sauteeing
How To Make Porcupine Meatballs
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by prepping all your ingredients.
Finely dice the yellow onion and mince the garlic.
This will help ensure they blend nicely into the meat mixture.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, diced onion, long-grain rice, beaten egg, minced garlic, kosher salt, celery salt, and black pepper.
Use your hands or a wooden spoon to combine everything until it’s just mixed.
Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
Step 3: Form the Meatballs
Once everything is well combined, it’s time to shape your meatballs.
Grab a handful of the mixture and roll it into a ball about the size of a golf ball.
Place it on a plate or tray, and repeat until all the mixture is formed into meatballs.
Step 4: Cook the Meatballs
In a large skillet, heat the canola oil over medium heat.
Once the oil is hot, carefully add the meatballs to the skillet.
Cook for around 5-7 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they are brown on all sides.
Step 5: Add Sauce (Optional)
While the meatballs are cooking, you can prepare a simple tomato sauce if you like.
In a separate pot, you can mix together some crushed tomatoes, a pinch of salt, and your favorite Italian herbs.
Pour this sauce over the browned meatballs and let it simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes.
This will not only flavor the meatballs but also help the rice cook fully.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once your meatballs are cooked through (you can check by cutting one in half to make sure the center is no longer pink), serve them hot! They go wonderfully over rice, pasta, or even in a sub sandwich.
Expert Tips
- For extra flavor, sauté the diced onion and garlic in the canola oil before mixing them into the meatball mixture.
- Make sure to use long-grain rice, as it holds its shape better during cooking.
- If you find the mixture too wet, you can add a few tablespoons of breadcrumbs to help it bind.
- For added depth of flavor, consider mixing in some Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like parsley.
Variations and Customizations
- Add finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for an extra veggie boost.
- For a spicy kick, mix in a bit of crushed red pepper or cayenne.
- Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Try different types of rice, such as brown rice or jasmine, to change up the flavor and texture.
How to Store Leftovers
Storing leftovers is easy! Place any uneaten porcupine meatballs in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
You can also freeze them for longer storage; they will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Just make sure to reheat them thoroughly before serving.
FAQ
Can I use another type of meat for these meatballs?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even pork can be used as substitutes.
Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
What side dishes pair well with porcupine meatballs?
Mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad make great sides.
You can also serve them with pasta or over rice for a fuller meal.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and keep them in the fridge before cooking.
They can also be cooked and stored for later use, making them perfect for meal prep.
Do I have to simmer them in sauce?
No, simmering the meatballs in sauce is optional.
You can serve them plain or with a dipping sauce if you prefer.
Conclusion
Porcupine meatballs are a wonderful, hearty dish that is sure to become a staple in your home.
With their easy preparation and comforting flavors, they bring joy to any dinner table.
The best part is that you can customize them to suit your family’s tastes.
Whether you serve them with a homemade sauce or enjoy them as they are, these meatballs are bound to impress.
So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a delicious meal that everyone will love!
