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Crispy BBQ Meatballs Recipe with Sweet Strawberry Rose Syrup

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A quick and easy recipe featuring crispy BBQ meatballs paired with a unique sweet strawberry rose syrup, perfect for entertaining and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
  • 1/2 cup (50g) breadcrumbs (plain, unsalted recommended)
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) whole milk
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup (15g) finely chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3/4 cup (180ml) ketchup
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 cup (150g) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) water
  • 1 tbsp rose water (food-grade)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, whole milk, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined, about 5 minutes.
  2. Roll mixture into 1 1/2-inch (4 cm) balls, about 16 meatballs. Place on a plate or tray.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry meatballs in a single layer for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown, working in batches if necessary, about 15-20 minutes total.
  4. While meatballs cook, whisk together ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper in a small bowl.
  5. Reduce heat to low, pour BBQ sauce over meatballs in the pan, and stir gently to coat. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until sauce thickens.
  6. In a small saucepan, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10-12 minutes until strawberries are soft and syrupy. Remove from heat and stir in rose water. Strain through a fine sieve for a smooth syrup.
  7. Serve meatballs warm, drizzled generously with the sweet strawberry rose syrup. Garnish with chopped parsley or fresh strawberry slices if desired.

Notes

For gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. For dairy-free, use almond or coconut milk instead of whole milk. Avoid overcrowding the pan to keep meatballs crispy. Slow simmer strawberry rose syrup for best flavor. Meatballs can be baked as an alternative to frying.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ meatballs, strawberry rose syrup, crispy meatballs, sweet and smoky, easy dinner, party appetizer