Meatballs with vegetables in a stew is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender, flavorful meatballs with a rich, savory vegetable stew. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering, offering a well-rounded meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying. The dish incorporates a blend of spices, including the unique hops-suneli seasoning, which adds a distinct Georgian flavor to the stew. In this article, we will guide you through the process of creating this delicious and aromatic dish, ensuring that it becomes a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 500-600 grams (1-1.5 pounds) ground beef
- 1 egg
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1-2 carrots, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 6-7 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon hops-suneli seasoning (a Georgian spice blend)
- 1.5 teaspoons paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for cooking
- Freshly minced parsley or cilantro for a final touch (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, egg, hops-suneli seasoning, paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together thoroughly using your hands or a spoon until well combined.
- Shape the Meatballs: With your hands, form the mixture into small meatballs, about the size of a walnut. Place them on a plate or tray, ready to be browned.
- Brown the Meatballs: Heat a few tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs in batches, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Brown the meatballs on all sides, turning them gently with a spoon or tongs.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetable Stew
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add a bit more vegetable oil if needed, and sauté the diced carrots, bell pepper, and minced garlic over medium heat until the vegetables start to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes to the skillet and stir to combine with the other vegetables. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the potatoes to begin softening.
- Season the Stew: Season the vegetables with a pinch of salt, a dash more paprika for added flavor, and any additional black pepper or hops-suneli seasoning to taste.
Step 3: Combine the Meatballs and Vegetables
- Simmer the Stew: Add the browned meatballs back into the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in enough water or broth to cover the meatballs and vegetables (about 3-4 cups). Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the meatballs are fully cooked through.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or paprika according to your preference.
Step 4: Serve the Stew
- Garnish and Serve: Once the stew is ready, turn off the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the meatballs and vegetables hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro if desired.
- Pair with Bread: This dish pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread or a warm piece of flatbread to soak up the rich and flavorful broth.
Conclusion
Meatballs with vegetables in a stew is a delicious and hearty dish that brings together the warmth of home-cooked flavors with the rich taste of well-seasoned meatballs and tender vegetables. The addition of the Georgian hops-suneli seasoning adds a unique twist, making this dish stand out. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or as a comforting meal on a cold evening, this stew is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the satisfying blend of flavors and the comforting warmth of this wholesome dish.