Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 500 g meat or minced meat
• 100 g rice, cooked
• 100 g onion, finely chopped
• 100 g carrots, grated
• 1 egg
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sour Cream Tomato Sauce:

• 100 g tomato sauce
• 75 g sour cream
• 550 ml water
• 35 ml vegetable oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps to Make Stuffed Meatballs in Sour Cream Tomato Sauce

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the meat or minced meat, cooked rice, chopped onion, grated carrots, minced garlic, and egg.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
2. Shape the Meatballs:
   • With wet hands, shape the meat mixture into meatballs of your desired size, around 1.5-2 inches in diameter.
   • Set the meatballs aside on a plate.
3. Prepare the Sour Cream Tomato Sauce:
   • In a medium saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
   • Add the tomato sauce, sour cream, and water, stirring until smooth.
   • Season the sauce with paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer the Meatballs in Sauce:
   • Gently add the meatballs to the sauce, ensuring they are fully submerged.
   • Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
   • Cover the saucepan and let the meatballs cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Serve:
   • Once the meatballs are cooked through, serve them hot with your choice of side, such as pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
   • Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 380 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sodium: 650 mg
• Sugar: 5 g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, ground beef, pork, chicken, or turkey all work well in this recipe.
2. Do I need to cook the rice first? Yes, cooking the rice before mixing it with the meat ensures it fully softens in the meatballs.
3. Can I freeze the meatballs? Yes, you can freeze the meatballs in the sauce. Let them cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
4. Can I make the sauce spicier? Absolutely! Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
5. What can I serve with these meatballs? Serve with mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or crusty bread to enjoy with the sauce.

Tips for Making the Best Stuffed Meatballs

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, onion, and herbs elevate the flavor of the meatballs and sauce.
2. Don’t Overmix: Gently mix the meat mixture to keep the meatballs tender and avoid a dense texture.
3. Simmer Gently: Cook the meatballs on low heat to allow them to absorb the sauce and stay tender.
4. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Adjust the sauce seasoning as it simmers to achieve the perfect balance.
5. Let the Meatballs Rest: Allow the meatballs to rest for a few minutes in the sauce after cooking to absorb more flavor.

Storage Tips

• In the Refrigerator: Store leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• In the Freezer: Freeze cooked meatballs with sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

Stuffed Meatballs in Sour Cream Tomato Sauce is a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and loved by everyone. With tender meatballs and a rich, creamy tomato sauce, this dish brings comfort food to the next level. Serve it with your favorite side dishes, and enjoy a hearty, delicious meal perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!