Ingredients
For the meatballs
- 500 g ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juiciness)
- 1 small onion, finely grated or minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1–2 tbsp milk (optional, for tenderness)
Spicy honey glaze
- 3 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp chili sauce (such as sriracha)
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp vinegar or lemon juice
- 1/2–1 tsp chili flakes (optional)
Zesty cilantro lime sauce
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt (or Greek yogurt)
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise (optional for creaminess)
- 1 large handful fresh cilantro
- 1–2 cloves garlic
- Juice of 1–2 limes
- 1 tsp olive oil
- Salt to taste
- 1–2 tbsp water (to adjust consistency)
Instructions
1. Prepare the meatball mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, soy sauce, chili flakes, paprika, salt, pepper, and chopped cilantro. Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix or the meatballs will become dense. Add a little milk if the mixture feels too dry.
2. Shape the meatballs
Form the mixture into evenly sized balls, about the size of a golf ball. You should get approximately 18–22 meatballs. Place them on a tray or plate.
3. Cook the meatballs
Oven method:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Place meatballs on a lined baking tray.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes until browned and cooked through.
Pan method:
- Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook meatballs, turning regularly, for 12–15 minutes until fully cooked and browned on all sides.
4. Make the spicy honey glaze
In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, chili sauce, ketchup, vinegar, and chili flakes. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened and glossy.
5. Coat the meatballs
Add cooked meatballs to the glaze and toss until evenly coated and sticky.
6. Make the cilantro lime sauce
Blend yogurt, cilantro, garlic, lime juice, olive oil, and salt until smooth. Add water gradually to reach a drizzle-friendly consistency. Adjust lime and salt to taste.
Serving suggestions
- Serve over steamed rice, noodles, or couscous
- Use in wraps or flatbreads
- Drizzle cilantro lime sauce on top or serve on the side for dipping
- Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges if desired
Tips
- Do not overmix the meatball mixture for a softer texture
- Chilling the meatballs for 10–15 minutes before cooking helps them hold shape
- Double the sauce if you prefer extra glaze for rice or dipping
- A mix of baking and broiling can give a slightly crisp exterior
