Image by Emiliano Vittoriosi

Stewed meatball

The other night I had the absolute pleasure of trying a traditional dish from my homeland - stewed meatball. Now, this was no bland, uninteresting måltid - this was an intricately prepared medley of flavors and textures that left me wanting for more.

Stewed meatball


The complex aroma wafted to me as soon as the plate appeared before me. At first glance, I could instantly notice how its ochre-colored glaze was a result of the careful sautéing of the meatballs in a mixture of spices, garlic, and onions.

The soft and succulent texture of the beef, pork, and veal combination was truly remarkable. The precise seasoning added a pop of depth entwined with a slight sweetness and nuttiness – not to mention the savoriness, which was absolutely spot-on.

As I took my first bite of the delicacy, my taste buds were cradled by an unmistakable level of comfort. Despite the complexity, it managed to bring a certain finesse with its amalgamation of herby and earthy notes.

But what truly sets this dish apart from others is the addition of grated Parmesan cheese that truly sealed the deal for me. It gave an additional piquancy and richness that tied all the ingredients together, creating a sublimely smooth and palatable concoction.

In conclusion, this was one of the culinary highlights of my recent trip home. If you ever find yourself there, do not miss out on this juicy and tantalizing treat - stewed meatball!

The origin of Stewed meatball

Few meals have been as prized and beloved through the ages as stewed meatballs. This hearty dish has been around for centuries, tracing its origins back to a small Italian village in the 16th century.

Today, stewed meatballs are enjoyed in many countries across the world, with regional variations giving the basic recipe its endless flavors and flair. But the recipe's humble beginnings were as a simple peasant meal - a humble combination of flavorful ingredients to be savored and shared by the family.

Legend has it that the dish was created by an old Italian grandmother who had little money to work with. She would combine whatever scraps of beef or pork she could scavenge with a few fragrant spices, then slowly simmer the mixture in a pot of broth. As the aromas began to waft through her home, her children and grandchildren couldn't help but be drawn to her table.

It's said that the unique blend of fragrant herbs and slow-cooking technique gave the final dish a deep and complex flavor that everyone enjoyed. With its toothsome texture and satisfying richness, it wasn't long before stewed meatballs became a favorite in households across Italy.

As years passed, the dish spread across the world, traveling on trade ships and through family emigrations. Along the way, it picked up new ingredients, tweaks and twists that allowed it to take on a new life in each country it visited.

It's no wonder that, centuries later, stewed meatballs remain a fond favorite in the hearts of many people today. The perfect combination of flavor, texture and comfort is something that no one can resist.

FAQs about Stewed meatball

Can you boil meatballs instead of frying?

Yes, you can boil meatballs instead of frying them. Boiling them will make them look less appetizing and they won't have much texture or flavor, but it is a healthier method than frying them.


Can you simmer meatballs too long?

Yes, you can simmer meatballs too long. If cooked for too long, they will become tough and dry.


How do you thicken meatball stew?

There are several ways to thicken a meatball stew. One simple method is to remove some of the liquid and add a roux (equal parts butter/oil and flour) to the stew until desired thickness is reached, stirring it in until it thickens. You can also mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with equal parts cold water and stir the mixture into the stew until it thickens. Another option is to puree some of the cooked vegetables from the stew in a blender and then stir them back into the stew. Finally, you could add instant mashed potato flakes until the desired consistency is reached.


Is it better to cook meatballs on the stove or in the oven?

It depends on the recipe and preference. Generally, if you are looking for a crispier outside with a juicy center, oven cooking is preferred. Stovetop cooking will allow the meatballs to cook more evenly and quickly, and can be easier to transfer between multiple pans.


Types of Stewed meatball

Ah yes, stewed meatballs. The succulent, savory sensation that encourages guests to reach for seconds, and for those in the know, thirds. But don’t let that fool you - this dish is far from one-dimensional. There are multiple types of stewed meatballs, each distinct in its own unique way.

The most traditional type of stewed meatballs is, of course, the classic meatball. These orbs of ground beef or pork are simmered slowly in a flavorful broth, and they come out tender and infused with juicy flavor. For an extra layer of complexity and creaminess, consider blending in some sour cream or cream of mushroom soup.

For a lighter option, try turkey meatballs. Low-fat ground turkey is blended with your favorite spices and herbs, then delicately poached in a simple broth until cooked through. The result is a lean, flavorful dish that’s sure to please any health-conscious chef.

Vegetarians can get in on the action as well with veggie-based stewed meatballs. Instead of ground beef or pork, these savory delights are comprised of lentils, mushrooms, and a medley of vegetables. Stewed until soft and supple, these vegan options offer all the flavor of traditional meatballs without the added fat.

Last but not least, there are the spicy stewed meatballs. Perfect for those who like it hot, these fiery morsels are made with ground beef, chili peppers, garlic, and a blend of robust seasonings. Best served with long-grain rice and a dollop of cool sour cream, these delectable treats will have your guests singing for more.

As you can see, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to stewed meatballs. Whether you’re looking for a classic comfort food or something a bit spicier, this timeless dish has something to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. So break out the pots and pans, and get ready to whip up this timeless crowd-pleaser.