Classic Meatballs

6 servings

120 minutes

Classic meatballs are a true masterpiece of French cuisine that combines rich flavors and gastronomic traditions. Their history dates back to the times when the art of meat preparation flourished. Juicy and aromatic with a tender texture from a mix of beef and pork mince, they gain depth of flavor from spices, ricotta, and red wine. The tomato sauce enveloping each piece adds a rich sweet-sour note, creating perfect balance. Baked to perfection in the oven, these meatballs become an essential element of a cozy dinner. They are served with pasta, fresh bread or enjoyed alone, complemented by grated Parmesan and herbs. Elegance and simplicity make this recipe a favorite among lovers of classic French cuisine.

Energy value per serving

• Calories: 836.6
• Proteins: 35.8g
• Fats: 59.1g
• Carbohydrates: 36.9g

Ingredients

• Ground beef: 300 g
• Minced pork: 300 g
• Salo: 50 g
• Ham: 50 g
• Parsley leaves: 70 g
• Dried oregano: 2 tsp
• Fennel seeds: 1 tsp
• Ground red pepper: 1 tsp
• Ground cumin: 1 tsp
• Ground cloves: 1 tsp
• White bread: 100 g
• Salt: to taste
• Ground black pepper: to taste
• Ricotta cheese: 120 g
• Milk: 2 tbsp
• Chicken egg: 3 pc
• Olive oil: 6 tbsp
• Tomato puree: 4 glass
• Red dry wine: 1 glass
• Beef broth: 1 glass
• Grated Parmesan cheese: to taste

Cooking steps

1. Chop the slices of bread in a food processor

   Required ingredients:

   • White bread: 100 g

2. In a large bowl, mix beef, pork, fat, chopped ham, parsley, oregano, fennel seeds, red pepper, cumin, cloves, and crushed bread. Add salt and pepper. Mix by hand and set aside.

   Required ingredients:

   • Ground beef: 300 g
   • Minced pork: 300 g
   • Salo: 50 g
   • Ham: 50 g
   • Parsley leaves: 70 g
   • Dried oregano: 2 teaspoons
   • Fennel seeds: 1 teaspoon
   • Ground red pepper: 1 teaspoon
   • Ground cumin: 1 teaspoon
   • Ground cloves: 1 teaspoon
   • White bread: 100 g
   • Salt:  to taste
   • Ground black pepper:  to taste

3. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, milk, and beaten eggs. Add the mixture to the meat and stir. Chill for an hour.

   Required ingredients:

   • Ricotta cheese: 120 g
   • Milk: 2 tablespoons
   • Chicken egg: 3 pieces

4. Preheat the oven to 150 degrees. Shape the meatballs and place them on parchment greased with oil. In a deep skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of oil. Fry the meatballs. Place all the meatballs in the skillet, pour in the wine, and cook for about 2 minutes.

   Required ingredients:

   • Olive oil: 6 tablespoons
   • Red dry wine: 1 glass

5. Add tomato paste and broth, bring to a boil, and cover the pan. Place in the oven and bake for about 1 1/2 hours. Serve the finished meatballs on a plate, drizzled with sauce and sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese and parsley. Serve with bread or spaghetti. Enjoy your meal!

   Required ingredients:

   • Tomato puree: 4 glasss
   • Beef broth: 1 glass
   • Grated Parmesan cheese:  to taste
   • Parsley leaves: 70 g