asian turkey meatballs with noodles

Lemon

3 min read

·

02-02-2025

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This recipe blends the comforting familiarity of turkey meatballs with the vibrant, exciting flavors of Asian cuisine. Forget bland turkey – these meatballs are bursting with ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and a hint of sweetness, all perfectly complemented by a bed of tender noodles and a luscious sauce. This dish is not only delicious but also a healthy and relatively quick weeknight meal. It's perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a flavorful and satisfying dinner.

Why This Recipe Works

This Asian Turkey Meatball recipe stands out for several reasons:

• Flavor Fusion: It expertly combines the heartiness of classic meatballs with the exciting zest of Asian flavors, creating a unique and unforgettable taste experience.
• Healthy Twist: Using ground turkey significantly reduces the fat content compared to traditional beef meatballs, making it a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
• Easy to Customize: Adjust the spice level to your liking and add your favorite vegetables for a personalized touch. Feel free to experiment with different noodle types too!
• Make-Ahead Potential: The meatballs can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, making weeknight cooking a breeze.

Ingredients You'll Need

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean or higher recommended)
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for added heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Noodles & Sauce:

• 8 oz dried noodles of your choice (udon, ramen, or egg noodles work well)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
• Optional additions: Chopped green onions, sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, gently combine all the meatball ingredients. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough meatballs.

2. Form the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.

3. Cook the Meatballs: You can cook the meatballs in several ways:

• Pan-fry: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs in batches until browned on all sides and cooked through (about 8-10 minutes).
• Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.

4. Prepare the Noodles: Cook noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

5. Make the Sauce: While the meatballs are cooking, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey/brown sugar, and sesame oil in a small bowl.

6. Combine Everything: Add the cooked meatballs to the noodles. Pour the sauce over the meatballs and noodles, tossing gently to coat. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened. Stir in the cornstarch slurry for extra thickness if needed.

7. Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately.

Tips and Variations

• Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for extra heat.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms into the meatball mixture.
• Different Noodles: Experiment with various types of noodles, such as soba noodles or linguine.
• Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side of steamed broccoli or a simple green salad.

This Asian Turkey Meatball recipe is a delicious and versatile dish that's sure to become a family favorite. The combination of tender meatballs, flavorful sauce, and satisfying noodles creates a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Enjoy!