Introduction
If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s bursting with flavor and a bit of a kick, look no further than these Spicy Mexican Donkey Balls! Imagine juicy meatballs made from a delightful blend of ground beef and pork, infused with the bright and zesty notes of jalapeños and cilantro. Each bite delivers a perfect crunch on the outside, followed by a rich and savory filling on the inside. These tasty treats are sure to be a hit at any gathering, from game day parties to family get-togethers.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced jalapeños
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup cornmeal
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg, beaten
- Vegetable oil for frying
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 24 meatballs
Directions and Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork. This hearty mixture will serve as the base for your delicious meatballs.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, cilantro, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cumin, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything together well, ensuring that all the flavors meld beautifully.
- Using your hands, form the mixture into 1-inch balls and set them aside on a clean plate.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the cornmeal and all-purpose flour. This mixture will add a tasty crunch to your meatballs.
- Roll each meatball in the cornmeal-flour mixture until well coated. This step is crucial for that crispy crust.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat, ensuring that there’s enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan.
- Fry the meatballs in batches, being careful not to crowd the skillet. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
- Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the skillet and drain them on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. This will keep them crispy and delicious!
Notes or Tips
For an extra kick, feel free to adjust the amount of jalapeños based on your heat preference. These meatballs can also be made ahead of time and frozen for later. Just cook them fully, allow them to cool, and then freeze in an airtight container. Simply reheat in the oven when you’re ready to serve!
Cooking Techniques
Frying the meatballs in oil not only ensures a beautiful golden crust but also locks in the moisture, making them juicy and flavorful. If you prefer a healthier version, you can also bake these meatballs at 400°F for about 20 minutes or until they’re cooked through.
FAQ
Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey can be used for a leaner version of these meatballs. Just keep in mind that they might require a little extra seasoning to enhance the flavor.
How can I serve these meatballs?
These Spicy Mexican Donkey Balls are fantastic on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with dipping sauces like guacamole or a zesty salsa. You can even skewer them for easy serving at parties!
Conclusion
There you have it—an easy recipe for Spicy Mexican Donkey Balls that’s sure to spice up your next gathering! The combination of savory meat, cheesy goodness, and a hint of heat makes these meatballs irresistible. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or a snack, they’ll have everyone coming back for more. Enjoy and happy cooking!