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When it comes to appetizers or snacks, nothing beats the charm of mini meatballs. Whether it's a family gathering, a party with friends, or a cozy night in, these bite-sized delights are always a hit. In this article, we'll walk you through the process of making delicious mini meatballs using a range of flavorful ingredients.

We'll be using pork mince as the base, complemented by a mix of soft breadcrumbs, a finely chopped small red onion, and a medium egg to bind everything together. The addition of grated parmesan and chopped parsley adds a burst of flavor and freshness. To top it all off, a delightful glaze made with Heinz tomato ketchup, garlic, smoked paprika, sherry vinegar, soy sauce, butter, and soft brown sugar takes these meatballs to the next level.

Not only will we provide detailed cooking instructions, but we’ll also share some handy tips and serving suggestions to make your mini meatballs simply irresistible. So, let’s get started on this culinary journey and discover how to create the perfect mini meatballs.

Ingredients

Before you begin, gather all the ingredients you’ll need for this recipe:

• 300 g Pork mince
• 30 g Soft breadcrumbs
• 1 Small red onion, finely diced
• 1 Medium egg, lightly beaten
• 2 tbsp Grated parmesan
• Sunflower oil for cooking
• 1 tbsp Chopped parsley, plus extra to serve
• 5 tbsp Heinz tomato ketchup
• 1 Clove of garlic, crushed
• 2 tsp Smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp Sherry vinegar
• 1 tbsp Soy sauce
• 1 tbsp Butter
• 1 tbsp Soft brown sugar
• 24 Cocktail sticks

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 190°C (170°C fan). This ensures that the meatballs will cook evenly and develop a beautiful, golden-brown exterior.

Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the pork mince, soft breadcrumbs, finely diced red onion, grated parmesan, and chopped parsley. Add the lightly beaten egg to bind the mixture together. Mix everything thoroughly until you have a firm and even consistency.

Form the Meatballs

Wet your hands to prevent the mixture from sticking. Take heaped tablespoons of the mixture and roll them into 24 small balls. Place the meatballs on a lined baking sheet as you go.

Bake the Meatballs

Drizzle the meatballs with sunflower oil to help them brown and develop a crispy exterior. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, turning the meatballs halfway through to ensure they cook evenly.

Prepare the Glaze

While the meatballs are baking, it's time to make the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine Heinz tomato ketchup, crushed garlic, smoked paprika, sherry vinegar, soy sauce, butter, and soft brown sugar. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring regularly. Cook for about 5 minutes until the glaze thickens and becomes glossy.

Glaze the Meatballs

Once the meatballs are cooked, pour half of the glaze over them and roll them around to ensure an even coat. Return the meatballs to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to allow the glaze to set.

Serve and Enjoy

When the meatballs are ready, poke a cocktail stick into each one and transfer them to a serving dish. Sprinkle with extra chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve the meatballs alongside the remaining ketchup glaze for dipping.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I store leftover mini meatballs?

Store leftover mini meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.

Can I freeze mini meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze mini meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

What can I serve with mini meatballs?

Mini meatballs are versatile and can be served with various side dishes such as pasta, rice, or a fresh salad. They also make great appetizers for parties and gatherings.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! While pork mince is used in this recipe, you can substitute it with beef, chicken, or turkey mince depending on your preference.

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