Healthy Apple Cider Turkey Meatballs

Healthy Apple Cider Turkey Meatballs

Author: Chef Elsa Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 30 min Total Time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings Category: Dishes Cuisine: American Diet: Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free breadcrumbs)

Description

Description Delicious and healthy turkey meatballs infused with sweet apple cider and warm spices, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

  • 1.5 pounds lean ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 large beaten egg
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
  • 2 cloves minced garlic
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)
  • 1/2 cup finely diced shallots
  • 1.5 cups unsweetened apple cider
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons cold water
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Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, crumble the ground turkey. Add panko breadcrumbs, beaten egg, onion, garlic, parsley, sage, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined.
  2. Form the mixture into uniform meatballs, about 1.5 tablespoons each, yielding 28-32 meatballs.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the meatballs for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned. Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add olive oil and shallots, sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  5. Pour in apple cider and chicken broth, deglaze the pan, then add vinegar, maple syrup, mustard, sage, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
  6. Whisk cornstarch and water in a bowl to create a slurry. Slowly add to the skillet while whisking. Let the sauce thicken for a couple of minutes.
  7. Add meatballs back to the skillet, ensuring they are coated in the glaze. Cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
  8. Adjust seasoning as needed before serving. Garnish with parsley.

Notes

  1. Notes
  2. For added flavor, let the meatball mixture sit for 15-30 minutes before cooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure turkey reaches 165°F.