Delicious Scottish Meatballs Recipe for a Savory Dinner
There’s nothing quite like a warm and hearty meal on a chilly night, and that’s exactly what you’ll get with this Scottish Meatballs recipe. As a chef who specializes in British cuisine, I can confidently say that these meatballs are the perfect comfort food for any occasion. They’re filling, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make.
Using a combination of lean ground beef and traditional Scottish seasonings, these meatballs pack a punch of rich flavor in every bite. And the best part? This recipe is so versatile that it can be served as an appetizer or as the main course. Whether you’re feeding a large crowd or enjoying a cozy evening at home, these meatballs are sure to satisfy.
In addition to its delicious taste, this recipe also features a variety of ingredients that are both healthy and flavorful. From finely chopped onion to crushed pineapple, every ingredient in this recipe is carefully selected to create the perfect balance of flavors, making it a healthier option for those looking for nutritious meals.
So why not give this recipe a try? Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these meatballs are guaranteed to impress even the pickiest eater. So let’s get started on creating some mouth-watering Scottish Meatballs!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
As a chef who specializes in British cuisine, let me tell you why you’re going to love this Scottish Meatballs recipe. First, it’s a perfect twist on your regular meatballs. They are packed with Scottish flavors and will surely leave you wanting more. You’ll love the mixture of lean ground beef, minced scotch lamb, and Orkney Boreray mutton that gives a unique taste to these meatballs.
Secondly, this recipe is easy to make and can be served at any gathering – from family dinners to cocktail parties. It’s a great way to impress your guests with delicious Scottish flavors without spending hours in the kitchen.
Thirdly, this recipe allows for adaptations and variations. You can add your own twist by adding fried eggs, soft-boiled eggs or even haggis as toppings. The possibilities are endless!
Lastly, these Scottish Meatballs can be served alongside various dishes like Colcannon Orkney or bread crumbs, making them an ideal accompaniment for any meal. These meatballs are versatile, so leftovers can easily be transformed into new dishes like air-fryer Scotch eggs or even tomato sauce.
Try out this Scottish Meatball recipe today and experience the crave-worthy flavor of Scotland in every bite. I promise you wont regret it.
Ingredient List
Here’s what you’ll need to make Scottish Meatballs:
Meatballs Ingredients:
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onions
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green pepper
- 2 tbsp minced scotch bonnet peppers
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Sauce ingredients:
- One (14½ ounce) can crushed pineapple
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 3/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- ¼ cup sugar
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Make sure you have all these ingredients ready before starting your recipe.
The Recipe How-To
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s move on to the fun and exciting part of making the Scottish Meatballs!
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture
First preheat your oven to 375°F. Then, take a large mixing bowl and combine two pounds of ground beef with one finely chopped onion, one tablespoon of minced Scotch bonnet pepper, 1/2 cup of finely chopped green pepper, one lightly beaten egg, 1/2 cup of flour, and 1-2 teaspoons each of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Next, mix everything together thoroughly by hand or with a spatula. Do not overwork the mixture.
Step 2: Form the Meatballs
Using your hands or an ice cream scoop, form 45-50 small meatballs. Place them on a non-stick baking sheet that has been brushed with oil.
Step 3: Bake the Meatballs
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, until the meatballs are no longer pink in the center.
Step 4: Add Sauce
While the meatballs are baking, it’s time to prepare your sauce. Take a small pan and add one can (8 oz) crushed pineapple (undrained), one tablespoon cornstarch dissolved in three tablespoons chicken broth, three tablespoons soy sauce, three tablespoons granulated sugar, three tablespoons red wine vinegar. Stir everything together over medium heat until it thickens.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the meatballs are done baking, place them into a serving dish and pour the pineapple sauce over them. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice or noodles.
Extra tip:
If you like your meatballs slightly crispy but still soft and tender inside, you can air-fry them instead of baking them in the oven. Just coat them with oil and air-fry them at 375°F for about 12-15 minutes.
There you have it! A delicious and easy-to-make Scottish Meatballs recipe that will impress your friends and family.
Substitutions and Variations
As a chef, I know that sometimes you may need to make some substitutions or variations in a recipe. In this case, there are several ways to modify this Scottish Meatballs recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions.
Firstly, the recipe calls for lean ground beef, which can easily be replaced with ground turkey or chicken for a healthier twist. You could also use lamb or mutton meat instead of beef for a more traditional Scottish flavor.
For vegetarians, you could substitute the meat with textured vegetable protein (TVP) or even mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version of these meatballs.
If you want to make the sauce sweeter, you can add some honey or maple syrup in place of the granulated sugar. To add some heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to your liking.
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free options such as almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs or crackers.
For those who love vegetables, you could incorporate finely chopped green peppers, onions, carrots or leeks into your meatball mixture. The addition of crushed pineapple would also give them a sweet and tangy twist.
To pair the Scottish meatballs: Try serving these over mashed potatoes and veggies (a la colcannon), along with a side of green beans or braised cabbage. Or bake them in the oven smothered in tomato sauce with grated cheese on top for an easy weeknight dinner.
Experimenting with different meat types, seasonings and sauces can lead to endless variations of this recipe depending on your mood or preferences.
Regardless of what substitutions you make, each variation allows for a flavorful and hearty dish that any guest will enjoy.
Serving and Pairing
These Scottish Meatballs are a comforting and hearty dish that deserves to be served with other tasty elements. To achieve the perfect combination, here are some serving suggestions and pairing ideas that will make your meal complete:
Serve the meatballs on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables, such as carrots or parsnips, for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition. Alternatively, consider placing them over a bed of steamed rice, which will nicely absorb the delicious sauce.
In addition to these sides, green beans are always an excellent choice to balance out the richness of the meatballs while providing some texture and color contrast. Alternatively, a simple mixed salad with a vinaigrette dressing could also be appropriate to keep things fresh and light.
If you’re looking for something more substantial, you can also serve these Scottish Meatballs with a traditional Scottish side dish like colcannon or bannocks. These options work especially well if you want to go all-in with the Scottish theme.
When it comes to pairing these savory meatballs with wine or beer, red wine is an obvious choice that will work well with the rich tomato-based sauce. A Shiraz from Australia or Malbec from Argentina would both complement the dish nicely. If beer is more your style, look no further than a good quality brown ale or stout. The complex flavors of chocolate and roasted malt will pair perfectly with the hearty beef mixture.
Overall, this is a versatile recipe that can be paired with many different items. Don’t be afraid to get creative in your serving suggestions and enjoy these succulent meatballs in any way that suits you best!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
When cooking up a batch of these scrumptious Scottish meatballs, it’s always nice to have some leftovers. Luckily, this recipe is a prime candidate for making ahead and storing for later. Whether you’re meal prepping or planning for leftovers, these meatballs can be stored in the fridge for up to four days or in the freezer for up to three months. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
Reheating the meatballs is simple and can be done using one of two methods: either in the microwave or on the stovetop. If microwaving, simply place the desired number of meatballs on a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for 60-90 seconds depending on the strength of your microwave. If reheating on the stovetop, place the meatballs in a saucepan with either tomato sauce or chicken broth and cook over medium heat until heated through, around 5-7 minutes.
One of my favorite ways to use leftover Scottish meatballs is by making a delicious sub sandwich or wrap filled with sliced meatballs, crispy lettuce, and creamy condiments like avocado mayo or aioli. Alternatively, you could chop them up and add them to a hearty soup or stew made with carrots, leeks, and potatoes for a cozy winter meal.
Remember that storing and reheating food is just as important as cooking it to ensure safety and quality. Always ensure that any leftovers are stored properly and adequately reheated before consuming.
Tips for Perfect Results
As a chef specializing in British cuisine, I understand how important it is to make the best version of any dish. That’s why I’m sharing some tips that will help you achieve perfect results with your Scottish meatballs.
1. Use lean ground beef
To get the right texture for your meatballs, it’s best to use lean ground beef. This helps keep the meatballs tender and juicy without being too greasy. I recommend using beef with around 90% lean meat and 10% fat.
2. Keep the mixture cold
When making meatballs, it’s essential to keep the mixture cool while working with it. This makes it easier to shape the balls and ensures they hold their shape during cooking. It also makes them juicier as they won’t dry out.
3. Brush with oil instead of frying
Instead of frying your Scottish meatballs, I recommend brushing them with oil and baking them in a preheated oven (375°F) for about 15-20 minutes. This method will give you healthier meatballs, while still keeping them moist and flavorful.
4. Add flavor with herbs and spices
Fresh herbs and spices can add more depth to the flavor of your Scottish meatballs recipe. Try adding some finely chopped fresh parsley or thyme, along with minced garlic or onion, when mixing the beef.
5. Make sure they’re cooked through
It’s important to ensure your meatballs are fully cooked before serving. You can check this by cutting one in half and checking that it’s no longer pink in the middle.
6. Serve with tomato sauce or gravy
A good tomato sauce or gravy pairs perfectly with Scottish meatballs recipes. You can make a quick tomato sauce by sautéing onions and garlic in a pan with some canned tomatoes, salt, sugar, and pepper.
By following these simple tips, you can create delicious Scottish meatballs that everyone will love!
FAQ
After sharing all the essential information on how to make these delicious Scottish meatballs, it’s typical for cooks to have some frequently asked questions. In this FAQ section, I will address some of them to ensure you don’t encounter any obstacles while making this recipe.
What is the secret to dense meatballs?
Contrary to popular belief, eggs in meatball recipes aren’t included for moisture, but rather to serve as a binder. Typically, one to two eggs are sufficient for one to two pounds of meat, cheese, bread crumbs, and herbs. It’s crucial to use them sparingly to avoid making the meatballs dense and spongy; instead, we want them to be light and airy.
What’s the difference between meatballs and faggots?
When it comes to meat-based dishes, there are a few differences between meatballs and faggots. Meatballs are typically made from minced beef or pork, and are small in size. They can be either cooked in a tomato-based sauce or fried. On the other hand, faggots are larger, and are made from offal. They are baked in the oven and served with gravy.
What does Bobby Flay put in his meatballs?
This recipe requires a mixture of ground beef, pork, and veal in equal proportions. Notes are provided for those who need guidance in selecting specific types of pork and veal. Two large eggs should be lightly beaten and combined with grated Parmesan cheese, finely diced garlic, homemade Italian breadcrumbs, and finely chopped parsley.
Is a Scotch egg a meatball?
A classic British dish, the Scotch egg consists of a hard-boiled egg enclosed in a layer of seasoned sausage meat, coated with breadcrumbs and either deep-fried or baked until golden brown.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the Scottish Meatballs Recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone who loves the rich flavors and savory tastes that come with traditional British cuisine. I have shared my personal tips and recommendations to ensure you get the perfect results every time you make these delicious meatballs. My advice is to be creative and experiment with different serving and pairing combinations such as serving the meatballs with mashed potatoes or a side of roasted veggies. Remember, this recipe can also be made ahead of time, frozen, and reheated later for a quick meal on busy days.
When making Scottish Meatballs, always use fresh ingredients for the best results. Also, feel free to make your own substitutions or variations based on your personal preferences or dietary needs. Don’t forget to share this delightful recipe with your family and friends so they too can enjoy the amazing flavors of Finkadella Scottish Meatballs.
Whether it’s for your next family dinner or a special occasion, this Scottish Meatball Recipe is sure to impress everyone with its unique flavors and tender texture. So why wait? Start cooking today and taste this amazing dish that will truly transport you to Scotland!
Scottish Meatballs Recipe
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons minced onions
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/3 cup chicken broth
- 1 (8 ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
Scottish Sauce
- 1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons plain red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1/4 cup scotch whiskey
- 1/3 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup diced green pepper
Instructions
- Combine first six ingredients. Gently shape into balls about 1 inch in diameter (If you have a melon baller, it helps standardize the size of balls.) In 10-inch frying pan heat oil and brown meat balls.
- Remove from pan and drain on paper towels. Drain pan, retaining about 1 tablespoon oil. Add broth and drained pineapple. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Meanwhile, make the Scottish Sauce.
- Combine all ingredients except green pepper and mix until smooth. Stir into skillet with pineapple mixture and cook until sauce has thickened. Add meatballs and green pepper. Cook gently about 10 minutes more.
- Serve with rice.
Nutrition
Recommended Recipes Just For You
Brian is a British chef cum food blogger who has been in the kitchen since he was a young lad. Growing up in Manchester, he developed a passion for cooking and a keen eye for the perfect dish. He now runs his own blog and YouTube channel, which is dedicated to sharing his passion for food with the world.