Savory Japanese Tsukune Meatballs for Unforgettable Meals

Japanese Tsukune meatballs are versatile, flavorful, and perfect for any gathering.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 25

Total Time 45

Servings: 4 meatballs

Course: Chicken

Cuisine: Japanese

Calories: 220

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

1 lb Ground Meat (chicken, turkey, pork, veal, or beef) Mix different types for a flavor twist.
1 large Egg Binds the meat together.
2 stalks Green Onions Finely sliced; chives can be used as a substitute.
1 tbsp Corn Starch or Tapioca Flour Essential for light and tender meatballs.
3 tbsp Soy Sauce or Tamari Use tamari for gluten-free.
3 tbsp Cooking Wine (Dry Sherry or Mirin) Optional; omit for alcohol-free.
1 tbsp Sugar Adjust according to taste.
1 tbsp Fresh Ginger Grated for best flavor.
2 tbsp Oil (Sesame or Vegetable) For frying.

For Garnishing

1 tsp Shichimi Togarashi Japanese spice blend; substitute red pepper flakes if needed.

Suggested Sides

2 cups Cooked Rice To soak up the sauce.
2 cups Steamed Vegetables Bok choy or asparagus recommended.
1 large Fresh Salad Bright salads with cucumbers or mung bean sprouts.

Equipment

large mixing bowl
small mixing cup
Skillet

Method

Sauce Preparation

Whisk together 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 3 tablespoons of cooking wine, and 1 tablespoon of sugar until well combined. Set aside.

Meatball Mixture

Combine ground meat, green onions, and ginger in a large bowl. Knead for 3-4 minutes until sticky.

Incorporate Ingredients

Add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 egg, and 1 tablespoon of corn starch. Mix until fully blended.

Shape Meatballs

Roll the mixture into balls about 2 inches in diameter, or shape into patties.

Cook Meatballs

Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook meatballs for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown, then cover and cook for an additional 6-8 minutes.

Add Sauce

Pour the prepared sauce into the pan, stirring to coat. Allow to simmer for 3-5 minutes until thick.

Serve

Transfer meatballs to a platter. Garnish with shichimi togarashi and serve with rice or salad.

Nutrition

Serving: 1meatballCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 18gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Measure ingredients accurately for best results. Avoid overmixing to maintain tenderness.

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