Description
These Easy Fig Jam Meatballs combine tender baked meatballs with a sweet and savory fig jam glaze, perfect as an appetizer or served over rice for a hearty main dish. The rich flavor of the fig jam sauce complemented by balsamic vinegar and Dijon mustard creates a delightful balance that elevates this classic comfort food.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup grated onion
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Sauce
- 1 cup fig jam
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
Garnish
- Fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the meatballs.
- Mix Meatball Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, grated onion, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix just until all ingredients are combined, taking care not to overmix to keep the meatballs tender.
- Shape Meatballs: Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and arrange them evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- Bake Meatballs: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the meatballs for 18 to 20 minutes until they are fully cooked through and browned.
- Prepare Sauce: While meatballs bake, whisk together fig jam, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally until the sauce is glossy and slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Coat Meatballs: Add the baked meatballs to the simmering sauce and gently stir to coat each meatball thoroughly.
- Simmer Together: Allow the meatballs and sauce to simmer together for another 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors meld nicely.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, then serve the meatballs warm. They can be enjoyed on their own or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef if preferred.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra spicy kick.
- This dish works well as a party appetizer or served over rice as a main course.
- To keep this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and soy sauce.
