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Homemade Polynesian Meatballs photo

Polynesian Meatballs

These Polynesian Meatballs are bursting with flavor! Sweet and savory, they bring a taste of the islands to your dinner table.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Polynesian
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs:
  • 1.5 pounds lean ground beef
  • 0.5 cup finely diced onion
  • 0.75 cup Panko crumbs
  • 0.33 cup milk
  • 1 large egg lightly beaten
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 0.25 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 0.5 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 can (8-ounce) pineapple tidbits juice reserved
  • 0.33 cup water
  • 0.33 cup vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 0.33 cup finely diced green bell pepper
  • sliced green onions for garnish
  • rice for serving, optional

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Skillet
  • Spatula
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

Directions:
  1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it nice and hot for baking the meatballs.
  2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground beef, finely diced onion, Panko crumbs, milk, lightly beaten egg, salt, black pepper, and ground ginger. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
  3. Step 3: Using your hands, form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will help with easy cleanup.
  4. Step 4: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through. If you have a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
  5. Step 5: While the meatballs are baking, heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. In a separate bowl, whisk together the reserved pineapple juice, water, vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, and cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture into the heated skillet and bring it to a simmer, stirring frequently until it thickens.
  6. Step 6: Once the meatballs are done baking, gently add them to the skillet with the sauce. Allow them to simmer together for a few minutes to absorb all that delicious flavor.
  7. Step 7: Stir in the pineapple tidbits and finely diced green bell pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
  8. Step 8: Serve the Polynesian Meatballs over a bed of rice, if desired, and garnish with sliced green onions for a pop of color and flavor.

Notes

  • Consider using ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • For gluten-free, use gluten-free Panko crumbs.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.