Discover the tantalizing flavors of Haiti with our delightful recipe for Boulet Boulettes Haitiennes! These savory meatballs, crafted from a perfect blend of ground beef and aromatic spices, promise to transport your taste buds straight to the Caribbean. Whether you're planning a family dinner or looking to impress your friends at a gathering, these mouthwatering meatballs are sure to steal the spotlight. With just 45 minutes of your time, you can create a dish that’s not only delicious but also rich in cultural heritage. Ready to embark on a culinary adventure? Let’s dive into the recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Haitian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly with your hands until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Gently knead the mixture for 2-3 minutes to ensure the spices and breadcrumbs are evenly distributed throughout the meat.
- Shape the meat mixture into uniform meatballs, approximately
- 5 inches in diameter. Ensure the meatballs are compact and hold together well.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be about 1/4 inch deep to allow for even frying.
- Carefully place the meatballs into the hot oil, leaving space between each to prevent overcrowding. Fry in batches if necessary.
- Cook the meatballs for 4-5 minutes on each side, turning gently to ensure they are golden brown and cooked through completely.
- Use a meat thermometer to verify the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for food safety.
- Remove meatballs from the skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Let the meatballs rest for 3-4 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Serve hot with rice, beans, or a fresh salad as a traditional Haitian meal.
Tips
- Ingredient Quality Matters: Use fresh ground beef for the best flavor and texture. If possible, choose a blend with a little fat for juicier meatballs.
- Don't Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
- Uniform Size: Shape your meatballs to be consistent in size for even cooking. A handy tip is to use a cookie scoop for perfectly round meatballs.
- Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safety and optimal juiciness.
- Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in uneven cooking. Frying in batches ensures a nice golden crust.
- Rest Before Serving: Let your meatballs rest for a few minutes after frying. This allows the juices to redistribute, making for a more flavorful bite.
- Serve with Traditional Sides: Pair your Boulet Boulettes Haitiennes with rice, beans, or a fresh salad to create a complete and satisfying meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 70mg
