Description
Delicious Asian Glazed Turkey Meatballs featuring lean ground turkey combined with fresh ginger, garlic, and green onions, glazed in a savory-sweet low-sodium soy sauce and honey-based sauce. These meatballs are perfect as a main dish or appetizer, offering a flavorful and healthy twist on a classic favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/3 cup whole wheat panko breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 Tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tsp fresh grated ginger or 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Garnish: extra green onions and sesame seeds
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/3 cup beef broth or water
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp fresh grated ginger or 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 to 1/2 tsp crushed red chili flakes (optional)
Optional for Thickening Sauce:
- 1/2 Tbsp cornstarch
- 1/2 Tbsp water
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, whole wheat panko breadcrumbs, egg, low-sodium soy sauce, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sliced green onions. Mix thoroughly but gently to ensure the ingredients are well incorporated without overworking the meat.
- Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, to ensure even cooking. Place them on a clean plate or tray ready for cooking.
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat a nonstick skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add a little oil if needed. Cook the meatballs for about 12 to 15 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Prepare the Sauce: While the meatballs cook, in a separate saucepan, combine the low-sodium soy sauce, beef broth or water, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, black pepper, and crushed red chili flakes if using. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If a thicker sauce is desired, mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl until smooth, then slowly whisk into the simmering sauce. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
- Glaze the Meatballs: Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and gently toss to coat them evenly. Let them simmer together for 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer the glazed meatballs to a serving dish. Garnish with extra sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving. They pair well with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables.
Notes
- Ground chicken, pork, or beef can be used instead of turkey for different flavor profiles.
- For gluten-free option, substitute whole wheat panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Adjust the amount of crushed red chili flakes to control the heat level according to your taste.
- Gently mix meatball ingredients to keep them tender and avoid dense meatballs.
- Ensure meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- If you prefer baking, meatballs can be baked at 400°F (204°C) for about 20 minutes instead of frying.
- The sauce can be prepared ahead and reheated for convenience.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
