Juicy Korean-style Bbq Meatballs

Juicy Korean-style BBQ meatballs are a delicious twist on traditional meatballs, bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing dinner for your family, or looking for a quick and tasty snack, these meatballs are sure to impress. With a delightful combination of spices and the creamy kick of spicy mayo, this recipe stands out for its ease of preparation and mouthwatering taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of gochujang and sesame oil creates a unique taste that elevates the meatballs.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer, main dish, or even served over rice or noodles.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the sriracha in the mayo sauce to suit your spice preference.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Great for gatherings; these meatballs are sure to be a hit with everyone.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Juicy Korean-style BBQ meatballs, gather all the necessary tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients without spills.
• Skillet: Provides even heat distribution for perfectly cooked meatballs.
• Whisk: Ideal for emulsifying the spicy mayo sauce smoothly.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

• 1 lb ground beef or a mix of beef
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup finely chopped garlic
• 1/4 cup gochujang Korean chili paste
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten

For the Spicy Mayo Sauce

• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon sriracha or more, to taste
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar

Garnish (Optional)

• Sesame seeds
• Chopped green onions

How to Make Juicy Korean-style Bbq Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, garlic, gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, ginger, and black pepper. Gently mix with your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overmix as this can make the meatballs tough.

Step 2: Add Binders

Stir in the panko bread crumbs and the beaten egg. Mix until everything is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Roll the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs.

Step 4: Cook the Meatballs

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of vegetable or canola oil to the pan. Add the meatballs to the hot skillet and cook, turning occasionally until browned on all sides and cooked through (about 8-10 minutes). The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).

Step 5: Make Spicy Mayo Sauce

While the meatballs are cooking, prepare the spicy mayo sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, and rice vinegar until well combined. Adjust sriracha to your preferred level of spiciness.

Step 6: Serve Your Meatballs

Once cooked through, transfer meatballs to a serving platter. Drizzle generously with spicy mayo sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve Juicy Korean-style Bbq Meatballs

Juicy Korean-style BBQ meatballs are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, these meatballs can be served in various delicious styles.

As an Appetizer

• Serve the meatballs on skewers for easy eating at parties.
• Pair them with toothpicks for a fun and casual finger food option.

Over Rice

• Place the meatballs over steamed rice for a hearty meal.
• Drizzle extra spicy mayo sauce for added flavor.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Wrap the meatballs in fresh lettuce leaves for a crunchy bite.
• Add sliced cucumbers and carrots for extra crunch.

With Noodles

• Toss the meatballs with cooked noodles and your choice of sauce.
• Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for an appealing presentation.

On a Salad

• Top your favorite salad with warm meatballs to make it filling.
• Use the spicy mayo as a dressing to tie all flavors together.

How to Perfect Juicy Korean-style Bbq Meatballs

To ensure your juicy Korean-style BBQ meatballs are always a hit, follow these simple tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh onions and garlic enhance the flavor. Avoid dried versions for best results.
• Don’t overmix: Gently combine the ingredients to keep the meat tender. Overmixing may lead to tough meatballs.
• Monitor cooking time: Cook until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for perfectly juicy meatballs.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust spices like gochujang and black pepper according to your taste preferences.
• Let them rest: Allow the meatballs to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps retain moisture.

Best Side Dishes for Juicy Korean-style Bbq Meatballs

Pairing side dishes with juicy Korean-style BBQ meatballs can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: A healthy side that adds color and nutrients. Steam until tender but still bright green.
2. Kimchi: This fermented dish offers tanginess that complements the rich flavors of the meatballs. Serve it cold or at room temperature.
3. Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crunchy, this salad balances the richness of the meatballs. Dress with rice vinegar and sesame oil.
4. Fried Rice: Leftover rice sautéed with vegetables makes a tasty accompaniment that absorbs all those delicious flavors.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness contrasts nicely with the savory meatballs. Roast until crispy on the outside and soft inside.
6. Asian Slaw: A mix of cabbage, carrots, and green onions dressed in sesame vinaigrette adds crunch and brightness to your plate.
7. Bulgur Wheat Salad: This hearty grain dish is nutritious and fills you up without overshadowing the main attraction.
8. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies grilled to perfection provide a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with BBQ dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Juicy Korean-style BBQ Meatballs, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Overmixing the meat: Mixing the ingredients too much can lead to tough meatballs. Only mix until everything is combined.
• Skipping the egg: The egg acts as a binder. Omitting it can result in meatballs that fall apart during cooking.
• Not measuring ingredients: Accurate measurements are key to maintaining flavor balance. Always measure your sauces and spices.
• Cooking at too high a temperature: Cooking meatballs at too high of a heat can burn the outside while leaving them raw inside. Stick to medium-high heat for even cooking.
• Neglecting internal temperature: Ensure your meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safety and the best texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Juicy Korean-style Bbq Meatballs

• Place cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Juicy Korean-style Bbq Meatballs

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place meatballs on a baking sheet and heat for about 15 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place meatballs in a microwave-safe dish. Heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, cover, and steam the meatballs until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Juicy Korean-style BBQ Meatballs.

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well as a lean alternative while still providing great flavor.

What if I don’t have gochujang?

You can substitute with sriracha or another chili paste, but keep in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly.

How can I customize my Juicy Korean-style BBQ Meatballs?

Feel free to add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots into the mixture for added texture and nutrition.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatball mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

Juicy Korean-style BBQ Meatballs are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They make a fantastic main dish or appetizer. Customize them with your favorite herbs or spices for an even more unique flavor profile. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its delightful taste!

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Juicy Korean-style BBQ Meatballs

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x

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Description

Juicy Korean-style BBQ meatballs are a delightful fusion of flavors that will elevate any dining experience. These tender beef meatballs are infused with the rich, umami taste of gochujang and sesame oil, creating a unique flavor profile that is both savory and slightly spicy. Perfect as an appetizer or a main dish, these meatballs are versatile enough to be served over rice, in lettuce wraps, or even tossed with noodles. With a creamy spicy mayo sauce drizzled on top, they make for an impressive dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a quick family meal, these meatballs are sure to please everyone at the table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup finely chopped garlic
• 1/4 cup gochujang Korean chili paste
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon sriracha or more, to taste
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• Sesame seeds (optional)
• Chopped green onions (optional)

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Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, ginger, and black pepper. Mix gently until combined.
2. Stir in panko bread crumbs and beaten egg until evenly distributed.
3. Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
4. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook meatballs for about 8-10 minutes until browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F).
5. For the spicy mayo sauce, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, and rice vinegar in a small bowl.
6. Serve meatballs warm with spicy mayo drizzled on top.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Korean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3 meatballs (90g)
• Calories: 240
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 19g
• Cholesterol: 75mg