Meatballs in Creole Sauce: The True Cuban Flavor
Meatballs in sauce are a classic dish in many cuisines around the world, but the Cuban version stands out for its intense seasoning, the distinctive Creole touch of the sofrito, and its perfect balance between juiciness and texture. Perfect for any occasion and very easy to make, these meatballs are a true delight for the palate. Here’s how to prepare them in a simple and delicious way.
🥚 Main ingredients for the meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ lb ground pork (1 lb if not using ham and cheese)
- ¼ lb ground ham (optional)
- ¼ lb ground gouda cheese (optional)
- 2 eggs
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons grated onion
- 1 clove garlic, crushed
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ cup cracker meal
- Salt to taste
- All-purpose flour for coating
- ¾ cup extra virgin olive oil
🍅 Ingredients for the Creole sauce:
- ½ red bell pepper (chopped)
- 1 white onion (chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves (crushed)
- ½ can tomato purée
- ½ teaspoon complete seasoning
- ½ tablespoon vinegar
- ½ tablespoon ketchup
- ½ cup white wine or dry wine
- ½ teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
- ¼ teaspoon sweet paprika
- Chicken or beef broth (if needed)
- Salt and pepper to taste
👨🍳 Step 1: Prepare the meatball mixture
In a large bowl, mix the ground beef and pork with the ham and cheese (if using), onion, garlic, eggs, pepper, and cracker meal previously moistened with milk. Knead with your hands until a uniform and compact mixture forms. Adjust salt if necessary.
🥄 Step 2: Shape and sear the meatballs
Form balls of the desired size, trying to make them all even. Dredge them in flour until well coated. Heat the oil in a large skillet and brown the meatballs on all sides just to seal them. Then drain them on absorbent paper.
🧄 Step 3: Prepare the Creole sauce
In the same skillet, sauté the bell pepper, onion, and garlic until soft. Add salt and pepper to taste, complete seasoning, parsley, paprika, tomato purée, ketchup, and vinegar. Cook over medium-high heat for a few minutes, then add the wine. Let the alcohol evaporate before continuing.
🔥 Step 4: Cook the meatballs in the sauce
Add the meatballs to the hot sauce. Pour in a little broth if the sauce is too thick or scarce. Cover and cook over low heat for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. They should be cooked through and the sauce slightly thickened.
ℹ️ Additional information:
- Yield: 50 small meatballs
- Preparation time: 40 minutes
- Cooking time: 35 minutes
- Category: Meats
- Cuisine: Cuban
🍽️ Chef’s suggestion:
Serve these flavorful meatballs with congrí (Cuban rice and beans) or with white rice. A side of fried ripe plantains makes this recipe a complete and deeply Cuban culinary experience.
Did you try making these meatballs? Share your experience in the comments. Did you add your own secret touch? We’d love to hear about it!
🏷️ Tags: meatballs in sauce, Cuban food, Creole recipes, ground meat, traditional dishes, Cuban stews, Cuban homemade cooking
For the Spanish version, visit: Albóndigas en Salsa Criolla Cubana.
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