Best Apricot Meatballs Recipes

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APRICOT MEATBALLS



Apricot Meatballs image

This is one of my husband's favorites. It makes an easy meal for Sunday dinner. The tangy barbecue sauce gets a hint of sweetness from apricot preserves. - Lorenda Spain, Dumas, Texas.

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Dinner

Time 1h

Yield 4 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 7

1 egg
1 cup soft bread crumbs
1/4 cup chopped onion
1 teaspoon salt
1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup apricot preserves
1/4 cup barbecue sauce

Steps:

  • In a bowl, combine the first four ingredients. Crumble beef over mixture and mix well. Shape into 1-in. balls. In a skillet, brown meatballs in several batches; drain. Transfer to a greased 2-qt. baking dish. Combine preserves and barbecue sauce; pour over meatballs. Cover and bake at 350° for 30 minutes or until the meat is no longer pink.

Nutrition Facts :

TURKEY MEATBALLS IN APRICOT SAUCE WITH MINT AND ALMONDS



Turkey Meatballs in Apricot Sauce with Mint and Almonds image

Kids will love the sweetness that apricots lend these spiced turkey meatballs-and the soft, almost fluffy consistency, since they don't get seared. The dried fruit steeps with cinnamon and chicken broth, then gets puréed with onion, melding into a bubbling sauce with a subtle spice. Don't bypass chilling the formed balls before plunking them in-this gives the breadcrumbs time to hydrate, and the meat a chance to firm up.

Provided by Greg Lofts

Categories     Food & Cooking     Ingredients     Meat & Poultry     Turkey Recipes     Ground Turkey Recipes

Time 1h50m

Number Of Ingredients 17

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 medium red onion, finely chopped (2 cups)
2 tablespoons minced garlic (from 4 to 5 cloves)
2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger (from a 2-inch piece)
1 1/4 teaspoons coriander seeds, crushed
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
1/3 cup dried breadcrumbs or matzo meal
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 pound ground turkey (preferably dark meat)
1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves, plus more whole leaves for serving
1 large egg, beaten
1/2 cup dried Turkish apricots (3 ounces)
1 small cinnamon stick
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1/2 cup sliced almonds

Steps:

  • Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large straight-sided skillet or braiser over medium. Add onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft but no color has developed, about 5 minutes. Remove half of onion and reserve. Add remaining 1 tablespoon oil, garlic, ginger, coriander, turmeric, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper to onion in skillet, stirring to combine. Cook until fragrant, about 45 seconds. Transfer to a large bowl, reserving skillet (do not wipe clean); stir breadcrumbs and 1/4 cup broth into bowl with spiced onion. Let cool slightly.
  • Add turkey, mint, egg, and 1 1/2 teaspoons salt to bowl, gently stirring to combine (do not overwork, or meatballs with be tough). With dampened hands, form into golf-ball-size meatballs and transfer to a parchment-lined tray (you should have about 20, each roughly 2 inches in diameter). Refrigerate until firm, about 30 minutes or, loosely covered, up to 1 day.
  • Meanwhile, combine apricots, cinnamon stick, and remaining 2 3/4 cups broth in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, until apricots are very soft and plump, about 15 minutes. Let cool slightly; discard cinnamon. Transfer to a blender with reserved onion and purée until smooth.
  • Melt 2 tablespoons butter in reserved skillet over medium-high. Add tomato paste and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in apricot mixture and bring to a boil. Gently nestle meatballs into sauce. Lower heat, partially cover (leaving about a 1-inch steam vent), and simmer, turning meatballs a few times, until almost cooked through and sauce has thickened and darkened slightly, 15 to 17 minutes.
  • Uncover and continue to simmer until sauce reduces to a thick gravy, about 5 minutes more. Meanwhile, melt remaining 1 tablespoon butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add almonds and cook, stirring occasionally, until nutty and golden in places, 2 to 3 minutes. Top meatballs with almonds and mint leaves; serve.

LAMB & APRICOT MEATBALLS



Lamb & apricot meatballs image

No one can resist meatballs, and this recipe is so moreish you might want to make double and freeze for another time

Provided by Good Food team

Categories     Dinner, Main course

Time 30m

Number Of Ingredients 11

2 tbsp olive oil
2 red onions , very finely chopped
4 garlic cloves , crushed
2 tsp each ground cumin and coriander (or 4 tsp Moroccan spice blend)
400g can chopped tomatoes
½ tsp sugar
½ 20g pack mint , finely chopped
500g pack lean lamb mince
8 dried apricots , finely chopped
50g fresh breadcrumbs
pitta bread and salad, to serve

Steps:

  • Heat 2 tsp oil in a pan and soften the onions for 5 mins. Add the garlic and spices and cook for a few mins more. Spoon half the onion mixture into a bowl and set aside to cool. Add the tomatoes, sugar and seasoning to the remaining onions in the pan and simmer for about 10 mins until reduced.
  • Meanwhile, add the mint, lamb, apricots and breadcrumbs to the cooled onions, season and mix well with your hands. Shape into little meatballs.
  • Heat the rest of the oil in a non-stick pan and fry the meatballs until golden (in batches if you need to). Stir in the sauce with a splash of water and gently cook everything for a few mins until the meatballs are cooked through. Serve with pitta bread and salad.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 411 calories, Fat 22 grams fat, SaturatedFat 9 grams saturated fat, Carbohydrate 26 grams carbohydrates, Sugar 13 grams sugar, Fiber 3 grams fiber, Protein 28 grams protein, Sodium 0.72 milligram of sodium

ASIAN-INSPIRED PORK AND RICE MEATBALLS WITH APRICOT GLAZE



Asian-Inspired Pork and Rice Meatballs with Apricot Glaze image

A little bit sweet, a little bit spicy, these meatballs and glaze make a great appetizer that is good warm or at room temperature.

Provided by Bibi

Time 1h

Yield 12

Number Of Ingredients 16

1 ¼ pounds ground pork
1 cup cooked rice
⅓ cup minced red onion
⅓ cup diced dried apricots
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 teaspoons ground coriander
1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
½ teaspoon white pepper
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, or to taste
1 ½ cups apricot preserves
⅓ cup hoisin sauce
2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
2 teaspoons chili-garlic sauce
1 medium lime, juiced
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

Steps:

  • Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Line a 12x18-inch baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
  • Combine pork, cooked rice, onion, apricots, vinegar, sesame oil, coriander, salt, pepper, and pepper flakes in a medium mixing bowl; mix until well blended. Form into 24 meatballs, each about 1 1/2 inch in diameter. Place meatballs on the prepared baking sheet.
  • Bake in the preheated oven until lightly browned, 30 to 35 minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read at least 160 degrees F (71 degrees C).
  • Remove meatballs from the oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, melt apricot preserves in a small saucepan over medium heat, 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in hoisin sauce, ginger, chili-garlic sauce, and lime juice.
  • Place meatballs in a serving dish and pour glaze over top. Garnish with cilantro.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 251.2 calories, Carbohydrate 36.3 g, Cholesterol 30.8 mg, Fat 8.4 g, Fiber 1.1 g, Protein 9.5 g, SaturatedFat 2.7 g, Sodium 386.4 mg, Sugar 21.5 g

KOFTA MISHMISHEYA (LAMB MEATBALLS IN APRICOT SAUCE)



Kofta Mishmisheya (Lamb Meatballs in Apricot Sauce) image

This is a recipe I have not yet tried. but it is from "The Book of Jewish Food" by Claudia Roden, and every single recipe I have made from that book so far has been a winner! This recipe originates in Iraq, and appeared originally in a 13th century Baghdad cookbook.

Provided by Susiecat too

Categories     Lamb/Sheep

Time 1h

Yield 4 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 12

1 large onion, chopped
3 -4 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 1/2 lbs ground lamb
1 teaspoon dried lime powder (available at Indian groceries)
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon allspice
salt and pepper
3 -4 tablespoons tomato paste
7 ounces dried apricots, soaked in water for 1/2 hr. (use the tart, not sweetened variety)
3 -4 tablespoons currants or 3 -4 tablespoons raisins
1 lemon, juice of
1 teaspoon sugar

Steps:

  • In a large frying pan, fry the onion in oil until golden.
  • With your hands, work the meat into a paste with the dried lime, cloves, allspice, 3/4 tsp salt, and pepper, and roll into walnut-sized balls.
  • Add them to the pan and cook, turning them to brown all over.
  • Stir in the tomato paste, add the drained apricots and the currants or raisins, and cover with water.
  • Simmer about 25 minutes.
  • Crush the apricots a bit with a fork, add lemon juice and sugar and a little salt and pepper, and simmer for another 20 minutes.
  • Serve over rice.

MEATBALLS WITH DRIED CRANBERRY-APRICOT SAUCE



Meatballs With Dried Cranberry-apricot Sauce image

This sounded great so I plan to make it within the next week. The Recipe comes from the Traverse Bay Fruit Company (Traverse City, Michigan). Traverse City and vicinity is the World's Capitol for great fresh CHERRIES.

Provided by Bone Man

Categories     Turkey Breasts

Time 1h5m

Yield 35 meatballs

Number Of Ingredients 13

1 lb ground turkey
1/2 cup dry breadcrumbs
1/3 cup onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup milk
1 egg
2 tablespoons dried parsley flakes
1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 cup ketchup
1 (12 ounce) jar apricot preserves
1/2 cup dried cranberries

Steps:

  • Mix together ground turkey, bread crumbs, onion, milk, egg, parsley flakes, poultry seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, salt and pepper.
  • Shape into one-inch balls.
  • Brown meatballs in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  • Remove meatballs from pan and remove any fat from the pan also.
  • Heat ketchup and apricot preserves in the skillet, stirring until blended.
  • Add dried cranberries to the sauce mixture.
  • Add meatballs until coated with sauce. Simmer uncovered 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 70.2, Fat 1.4, SaturatedFat 0.4, Cholesterol 16.5, Sodium 118.5, Carbohydrate 12.2, Fiber 0.2, Sugar 6.9, Protein 3

PORK MEATBALLS WITH APRICOT GLAZE



Pork Meatballs with Apricot Glaze image

These meatballs serve four as a main course or six as an appetizer. They can be kept warm in a slow cooker. They're a bit sweet with a subtle heat.

Provided by lutzflcat

Categories     Meatballs

Time 45m

Yield 4

Number Of Ingredients 16

1 pound ground pork
3 tablespoons finely chopped dried apricots
1 tablespoon minced red onion
1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger
1 large clove garlic, minced
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup apricot preserves
5 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 teaspoons Sriracha sauce, or to taste
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
¼ cup water
2 teaspoons chopped fresh cilantro, or to taste

Steps:

  • Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Mix ground pork, apricots, onion, ginger, garlic, and salt together in a large bowl until well combined. Use a tablespoon-sized cookie scoop to form into meatballs. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
  • Bake in the preheated oven until meatballs are cooked through, about 15 to 17 minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read at least 160 degrees F (71 degrees C).
  • Meanwhile, whisk apricot preserves, soy sauce, Dijon, brown sugar, sesame oil, Sriracha, and Worcestershire sauce together in a saucepan over medium-low heat until well combined. Cook until heated through, 3 to 4 minutes.
  • Stir cornstarch into water until dissolved, then add it to the saucepan. Cook, whisking constantly, until glaze thickens, 2 to 3 minutes.
  • Add meatballs to the glaze. Toss to combine and simmer for 2 minutes.
  • Serve warm, garnished with cilantro.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 581.4 calories, Carbohydrate 65 g, Cholesterol 81.7 mg, Fat 27.7 g, Fiber 1 g, Protein 21.1 g, SaturatedFat 9.4 g, Sodium 1198.5 mg

APRICOT SALSA MEATBALLS



Apricot Salsa Meatballs image

This incredibly yummy meatball recipe disappears quickly at parties. I found it on the back of a package of Armour meatballs. I use more cinnamon than is called for--at least 2 tsp.

Provided by Kate 8

Categories     Meat

Time 35m

Yield 6-8 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 4

1 lb frozen meatballs, regular, appetizer sized
1 cup salsa, fresh if possible
1 cup apricot preserves
1 teaspoon cinnamon

Steps:

  • Place all ingredients in a large saucepan or crockpot.
  • Mix thoroughly with large spoon.
  • Simmer 30 minutes stovetop or 2 hours in crockpot on high.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 141.7, Fat 0.2, Sodium 280.4, Carbohydrate 37.4, Fiber 1.1, Sugar 20.9, Protein 1.1

EASY APRICOT MEATBALLS



EASY Apricot Meatballs image

No time to make your own meatballs? No worries!

Provided by Alyson Ridge

Categories     Meat Appetizers

Time 50m

Number Of Ingredients 6

1 bag(s) frozen fully cooked homestyle meatballs
1 c apricot jelly/jam
1/2 c chili sauce
1/2 c water
1/2 tsp beef bouillon
2 1/2 Tbsp flour

Steps:

  • 1. On a baking pan, spread out meatballs and bake at 350 for 20 minutes.
  • 2. In a bowl, mix beef bouillon with (HOT)water. Add flour and stir until well dissolved into the mixture. In a medium sauce pan add the apricot jam and chili sauce- slowly add the water mixture. Stir and let simmer.
  • 3. Move meatballs to a casserole dish (or crockpot) and pour sauce over meatballs. Cover and cook for an additional 15 minutes in the oven.

SAUCY APRICOT 'N' SPICED MEATBALLS RECIPE - (4.5/5)



Saucy Apricot 'n' Spiced Meatballs Recipe - (4.5/5) image

Provided by á-174535

Number Of Ingredients 16

Spiced Apricot Sauce:
1/2 cup soft bread crumbs
2 tablespoons fat-free milk
1 egg white
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 cup finely snipped dried apricots
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon ancho chili powder or chili powder
6 ounces lean ground pork
6 ounces uncooked ground turkey breast
1/2 cup apricot nectar
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon ancho chili powder or chili powder
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a 15x10x1-inch baking pan with foil; lightly grease foil. Set aside. In a medium bowl, combine bread crumbs and milk. Let stand for 5 minutes. Stir in egg white, onion, dried apricots, salt, garlic, and chili powder. Add ground pork and ground turkey; mix well. Shape meat mixture into 24 meatballs. Place meatballs in the prepared baking pan. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until meatballs are done (160 degrees F). Drain meatballs on paper towels, if necessary. Place meatballs in a 1-1/2-quart slow cooker. Add Spiced Apricot Sauce; toss gently to coat. Turn cooker to warm setting or low-heat setting; keep meatballs warm for up to 2 hours. Spice Apricot Sauce Directions In a small saucepan combine apricot nectar, cornstarch, ancho chili powder, salt, and nutmeg. Cook and stir over medium heat until thickened and bubbly. Cook and stir for 1 minute more. Makes about 1/2 cup. MAKE AHEAD: Prepare meatballs as directed through Step 2; cool. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Prepare sauce as directed. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To serve, place meatballs in a 1-1/2-quart slow cooker. Add sauce; toss gently to coat. Cover and cook on low-heat setting for 2-1/2 to 3 hours or until heated through. Turn to warm setting or leave on low-heat setting; keep warm for up to 2 hours.

LAMB AND APRICOT MEATBALLS (OAMC)



Lamb and Apricot Meatballs (Oamc) image

These meatballs are easy to make and their texture is soft and light. Serve with pita bread and salad. Leftovers can be frozen for up to three months.

Provided by English_Rose

Categories     Lamb/Sheep

Time 30m

Yield 4 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 12

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 red onions, very finely chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons coriander
1 (14 ounce) can chopped tomatoes
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/2 ounce of fresh mint, finely chopped
1 lb lean ground lamb
8 dried apricots, finely chopped
2 ounces fresh breadcrumbs
salt and pepper

Steps:

  • heat 2 tsp of the oil in a pan and soften the onions for 5 minutes Add the garlic and spices and cook for a few more minutes.
  • Spoon half the onion mixture into a bowl and set aside to cool. Add the tomatoes, sugar and seasoning to the remaining onions in the pan and simmer for about 10 mins until reduced.
  • Meanwhile, add the mint, lamb, apricots and breadcrumbs to the cooled onions, season and mix well with your hands. Shape into little meatballs.
  • Heat the rest of the oil in a non-stick pand and fry the meatballs until golden (in batches if you need to). Stir into the sauce with a splash of water and gently cook everything for a few mins until the meatballs are cooked through.
  • Serve with pita bread and salad.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 526.5, Fat 34.8, SaturatedFat 12.8, Cholesterol 83, Sodium 188.7, Carbohydrate 31.3, Fiber 4.1, Sugar 14, Protein 23.2

WALNUT MEATBALLS WITH APRICOT BARBECUE SAUCE



Walnut Meatballs With Apricot Barbecue Sauce image

Found in the Cooking Pleasures magazine. I am always on the look out for vegetarian foods since my daughter started eating no meat. These actually look good. I am posting here for her. I have not tried this recipe. But I am planning this as a meal when she comes home for a visit.

Provided by Shirl

Categories     Rice

Time 1h

Yield 24 meatballs, 6 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 19

3/4 cup apricot preserves
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
1/2 cup ketchup
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
2 tablespoons onions, grated
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon oregano, fresh finely chopped
1 dash hot pepper sauce (like tobasco)
4 cups rice, cooked (white or brown)
4 eggs
1 1/4 cups soda crackers, crushed about 36 crackers
3/4 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
3/4 cup walnuts, ground
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
3 tablespoons parsley, fresh minced
1 1/2 teaspoons sage, ground
1/2 teaspoon salt

Steps:

  • Heat oven to 350 degrees.
  • Bring all sauce ingredients to a boil in a medium sauce pan. Cool.
  • Lightly spray a 13x9 inch glass baking dish with cooking spray.
  • Gently combine all meatball ingredients by hand in a large bowl.
  • Shape into 24 (1 1/2 inch) meatballs and place in prepared baking dish.
  • Pour sauce over meatballs.
  • Bake 30 minutes or until meatballs are firm and sauce is bubbling all over and slightly thickened.
  • If you want to serve over rice, you will need to double the sauce ingredients.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 959.1, Fat 29.2, SaturatedFat 6.6, Cholesterol 155.8, Sodium 924.5, Carbohydrate 153.5, Fiber 3.8, Sugar 25.2, Protein 20.8

SWEETIE MEATBALLS IN APRICOT SAUCE



Sweetie Meatballs in Apricot Sauce image

Submitted for RSC #9. I tinkered around with this through multiple incarnations. I finally landed on this slightly different taste for the meatballs. I really liked the taste. I think if I had to do it all over, I might have just left out the apricot sauce, the meatballs are yummy by themselves.

Provided by tara portee

Categories     Pork

Time 1h5m

Yield 56 meatballs

Number Of Ingredients 16

1 lb ground beef
1 lb pork sausage
2 1/2 cups crushed butter flavored crackers (like RITZ)
1 small white onion, chopped
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
6 ounces dried apricots (about 1 cup firmly packed)
2 cups hot water
2 cinnamon sticks
2 teaspoons lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon fresh minced ginger
2 tablespoons sugar

Steps:

  • Place the apricots in a dish; pour the 2 cups hot water over them to completely cover.
  • Allow them to soak for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  • To make meatballs, preheat the oven to 375 degrees.
  • In a bowl mix together all the meatball ingredients.
  • Shape the mixture into 1 inch balls and put on an ungreased baking sheet.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until meatballs are browned.
  • Put the cooked meatballs into a baking dish and hold to the side.
  • While the meatballs are cooking place the apricots along with the water they have been soaking in, into a sauce pan.
  • Add the two cinnamon sticks and bring to a boil.
  • Lower the heat, cover and simmer until the apricots are soft, about 15 minutes.
  • Remove the cinnamon sticks.
  • Put the mixture (including the water the apricots are cooking in) into a blender or food processor, add the sugar and ginger and blend until smooth. (make sure you remove the center cap of the mixer since the sauce will be hot).
  • Pour the apricot sauce over the meatballs and bake uncovered for 20 minutes in a 350 degree oven.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 73.1, Fat 4.3, SaturatedFat 1.4, Cholesterol 19.1, Sodium 125.8, Carbohydrate 5.3, Fiber 0.3, Sugar 3.2, Protein 3.3

APRICOT SWEET AND SOUR MEATBALLS



Apricot Sweet and Sour Meatballs image

An Asian-inspired sauce raises the flavor standard for ordinary meatballs.

Provided by Betty Crocker Kitchens

Categories     Appetizer

Time 45m

Yield 40

Number Of Ingredients 11

1 1/2 lb lean (at least 80%) ground beef
1/4 cup Progresso™ plain bread crumbs
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1 egg, slightly beaten
1/2 cup apricot preserves
1/4 cup hoisin sauce
1/4 cup rice vinegar
1/8 teaspoon ground red pepper (cayenne)
1 medium red or green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces

Steps:

  • Heat oven to 375°F. Spray 15 x10-inch pan with sides with cooking spray.
  • Mix beef, bread crumbs, salt, garlic powder, ginger and egg until well blended. Shape into 1-inch meatballs; place in pan. Bake uncovered 20 to 25 minutes or until no longer pink in center and juice is clear; drain.
  • In 2-quart saucepan, mix preserves, hoisin sauce, vinegar and red pepper. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until hot. Add drained meatballs and bell pepper. Cook until bell pepper is crisp-tender. Serve with cocktail toothpicks.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 60, Carbohydrate 4 g, Cholesterol 15 mg, Fiber 0 g, Protein 4 g, SaturatedFat 1 g, ServingSize 1 Appetizer, Sodium 55 mg

APRICOT MEATBALLS



Apricot Meatballs image

.

Provided by Beth Ellefson @belle2354

Categories     Meat Appetizers

Number Of Ingredients 7

1 - egg
1 cup(s) soft bread crumbs
1/4 cup(s) chopped onions
1 teaspoon(s) salt
1 pound(s) ground beef
1/2 cup(s) apricot preserves
1/4 cup(s) barbecue sauce

Steps:

  • In a bowl, combine beef over mixture and mix well. Shape into 1-inch balls. In a skillet, brown meatballs in several batches and drain.
  • Transfer to a greased 2-qt. baking dish. Combine preserves and barbecue sauce; pour over meatballs.
  • Cover and bake at 350 for 30 minutes or until the meat is no longer pink.

What are Apricot Meatballs?

Apricot meatballs are a delicious and savory dish that consist of bite-sized meatballs that are covered in a tangy and sweet apricot sauce. These meatballs are typically made from ground beef or pork, mixed with herbs and spices, then rolled into small balls and baked or fried until golden brown. The apricot sauce, which is what gives the dish its unique flavor, is made from a combination of apricot preserves, soy sauce, and vinegar.

The History of Apricot Meatballs

The origins of apricot meatballs are not clear, but it is believed that the dish first became popular in the United States during the mid-twentieth century. Apricots have been used in cooking for centuries, especially in Middle Eastern, Indian, and Mediterranean cuisine, where the fruit is commonly used in savory dishes.

Ingredients Used in Apricot Meatballs

The ingredients for apricot meatballs are relatively simple and easy to find in most grocery stores. The main ingredients include:
Ground Meat:
Ground beef, pork or turkey can be used as the main protein source in the meatballs.
Breadcrumbs:
The breadcrumbs act as a binding agent and help to hold the meatballs together.
Egg:
The egg also helps to bind the meat mixture together.
Herbs and Spices:
Seasonings such as garlic, onion, parsley, and black pepper are often added to the meat mixture to enhance the flavor.
Apricot Preserves:
The apricot preserves are the key ingredient in the sauce and give it its distinctive tangy sweetness.
Soy Sauce:
Soy sauce is used in the sauce to balance out the sweetness of the apricot preserves.
Vinegar:
Vinegar is also used in the sauce to add a slightly sour note and enhance the overall flavor.

How to Make Apricot Meatballs

To make apricot meatballs, start by preheating the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings in a mixing bowl and mix well. Use your hands to form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a ping pong ball. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil to the pan. Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown. While the meatballs are cooking, prepare the sauce by combining the apricot preserves, soy sauce, vinegar, and water in a small saucepan. Heat the sauce over medium heat and stir until the preserves are melted and the ingredients are well combined. Once the meatballs are done cooking, transfer them to a baking dish and pour the apricot sauce over the top, making sure all of the meatballs are coated evenly. Bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes, until the sauce has thickened and the meatballs are fully cooked.

How to Serve Apricot Meatballs

Apricot meatballs can be served as a stand-alone dish or as part of a larger meal. They are delicious served over rice or noodles, alongside a side salad or steamed vegetables.

Variations of Apricot Meatballs

There are many different variations of apricot meatballs, depending on personal preferences and tastes. Some variations include using different types of ground meat, such as chicken or lamb, or adding in additional vegetables, like bell peppers or zucchini.

Conclusion

Apricot meatballs are a tasty and unique dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are looking for a new recipe to try for dinner, or a dish to bring to your next potluck or family gathering, apricot meatballs are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Try making this dish today and experience the deliciousness for yourself!
Apricot meatballs are an excellent way to enjoy the sweetness of apricots with the savory flavor of meatballs. The combination is a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, guaranteed to delight your taste buds. Making apricot meatballs is not difficult. However, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your meatballs come out perfect every time. In this article, we have compiled valuable tips to help you make perfect apricot meatballs.

Tip 1- Choose the right type of meat

Choosing the right type of meat is crucial when making apricot meatballs. The ideal meat to use when making meatballs is ground beef or pork. Ground turkey or chicken may also work well, but the meatballs will be less juicy because they are leaner.

Tip 2- Add enough fat to the meatballs

Meatballs need fat to be juicy and tender. When making apricot meatballs, ensure that the meat you use contains at least 20% fat. If you use lean meat, add bacon, cheese, or breadcrumbs to ensure the meatballs are moist.

Tip 3- Use fresh apricots

Using fresh apricots will enhance the flavor of your meatballs. Fresh apricots are tart and sweet, and their flavor will infuse into the meatballs. You can also use canned apricots, but they will not necessarily have the same flavor as fresh ones.

Tip 4- Prepare the apricots

When using fresh apricots, remove the pits before using them in the meatballs. The pits are tough and can break your teeth if left in the meatballs. Cut the apricots into small pieces or mash them to create a jam-like consistency. This will make it easier for the apricots to blend with the meatballs.

Tip 5- Season the meatballs

Meatballs need seasoning to enhance their flavor. When making apricot meatballs, use a combination of herbs and spices that complement the apricot flavor. Basil, thyme, and garlic powder are flavors that work well with apricots.
Herbs and spices that complement apricots include:
  • Basil
  • Thyme
  • Garlic powder
  • Coriander
  • Chili powder
  • Cumin

Tip 6- Use eggs as a binding agent

Eggs are essential when making meatballs as they help hold the meatballs together. The eggs provide the necessary moisture for the meat mixture to stick together, making the meatballs tender and delicious. When making apricot meatballs, use 1 or 2 eggs, depending on the amount of meat you are using.

Tip 7- Use breadcrumbs

Breadcrumbs are an essential ingredient when making meatballs. They act as a filler to make the meatballs tender and prevent them from falling apart when cooking. When making apricot meatballs, use plain breadcrumbs as they do not have any added flavors that could clash with the sweetness of the apricots.

Tip 8- Brown the meatballs before adding them to the sauce

Browning the meatballs before adding them to the apricot sauce enhances the flavor of the meatballs. Browned meatballs have a caramelized exterior that adds depth to their flavor profile. To brown the meatballs, heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet and cook the meatballs for 2-3 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown.

Tip 9- Simmer the meatballs in the sauce

Simmering the meatballs in the apricot sauce allows them to soak up the flavors of the sauce. Place the browned meatballs in the apricot sauce and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through. During this time, the flavors of the sauce will infuse into the meatballs, resulting in a delicious combination of sweetness and savory flavors.

Tip 10- Serve hot with your favorite sides

Once the meatballs are cooked, serve them hot with your favorite sides. Apricot meatballs go well with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables. Garnish the meal with fresh herbs such as thyme or parsley to enhance its flavors.

Conclusion

Apricot meatballs are a delicious and easy-to-prepare recipe that combines the sweetness of apricots with savory meatballs. Making perfect apricot meatballs requires attention to detail and using the right ingredients. Use our valuable tips above to make perfect apricot meatballs that are juicy, tender, and full of flavor.

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