Porcupine meatballs

Porcupine Meatballs

A plate of porcupine meatballs

Porcupine meatballs are a classic American dish consisting of meatballs made with ground beef and rice, which gives them a distinctive appearance reminiscent of a porcupine's quills. This dish is often served with a tomato-based sauce and is a popular comfort food.

Ingredients

The primary ingredients for porcupine meatballs include:

• Ground beef
• Rice (typically uncooked long-grain white rice)
• Eggs
• Onion
• Garlic
• Salt and pepper
• Tomato sauce or tomato soup

Optional ingredients may include:

• Worcestershire sauce
• Herbs such as parsley or oregano
• Cheese

Preparation

The preparation of porcupine meatballs involves mixing the ground beef with rice, eggs, chopped onions, minced garlic, and seasonings. The mixture is then shaped into small balls, approximately 1 to 2 inches in diameter.

Once the meatballs are formed, they are placed in a baking dish or skillet. A tomato-based sauce is poured over the meatballs, which helps to cook the rice and infuse the meatballs with flavor. The dish is then baked in the oven or simmered on the stovetop until the meatballs are cooked through and the rice is tender.

Serving Suggestions

Porcupine meatballs are typically served hot, often accompanied by side dishes such as:

• Mashed potatoes
• Steamed vegetables
• Pasta
• Bread or rolls

The dish can be garnished with fresh herbs or grated cheese for added flavor.

Variations

There are many variations of porcupine meatballs, including:

• Using ground turkey or ground pork instead of beef
• Adding spices such as cumin or chili powder for a different flavor profile
• Incorporating vegetables like bell peppers or carrots into the meatball mixture

Related Pages

• Meatball
• Comfort food
• American cuisine