Description: Albóndigas en Salsa is a traditional Spanish dish consisting of tender meatballs simmered in a rich, flavorful tomato-based sauce. This comforting dish is perfect for family meals and gatherings, offering a delicious blend of herbs, spices, and savory meat.
History: The origin of albóndigas dates back to the Moors who brought meatball recipes to Spain during their occupation. Over time, the recipe evolved, incorporating local Spanish flavors and ingredients. Today, albóndigas en salsa is a staple in Spanish cuisine, often enjoyed as a tapa or a main course.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Serving Size: 4-6 servings
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 500g ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let it sit for a few minutes until the breadcrumbs absorb the milk.
- Add the ground meat, egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, parsley, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the meatballs until browned on all sides. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.
Prepare the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, beef or chicken broth, smoked paprika, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring the sauce to a simmer.
- Return the meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Cover and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
Serve:
- Remove the bay leaf from the sauce.
- Serve the albóndigas en salsa hot, garnished with fresh parsley. They can be enjoyed with crusty bread, rice, or potatoes.
Final Thoughts: Albóndigas en Salsa is a wonderful example of Spain’s rich culinary tradition. The dish not only brings together delicious flavors and textures but also carries with it a piece of history and culture. Perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners, this recipe offers a delightful way to experience Spanish cuisine. The combination of tender meatballs and savory sauce is sure to be a hit at any table, making it a dish worth adding to your regular meal rotation.