Are you craving a delicious and comforting meal that's also quick and easy to make? Look no further than this Albondigas Al Chipotle recipe! These spicy chipotle meatballs simmered in a rich and flavorful tomato broth are a fantastic example of healthy meals that don't compromise on taste. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend lunch, this recipe is guaranteed to become a new family favorite. Get ready to experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico in your own kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option)
- ½ cup cooked quinoa or rice (adds texture and makes the meatballs more tender)
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ¼ teaspoon oregano
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, roughly chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 cup beef broth
- ½ cup chopped cilantro, for garnish
- Optional: sour cream or Mexican crema for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, cooked quinoa or rice, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, chili powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined – be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
Step 2: Form and Brown the Meatballs
Roll the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides. This step adds incredible depth of flavor to your albondigas. Remove the meatballs from the pot and set aside.
Step 3: Simmer in Spicy Broth
Add the crushed tomatoes, chopped chipotle peppers (including some adobo sauce), and beef broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then return the meatballs to the pot. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. The longer they simmer, the more flavorful they become!
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot. A dollop of sour cream or Mexican crema adds a lovely creamy contrast to the spicy chipotle broth. Serve with warm tortillas, rice, or crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of ground beef and pork.
- Add a diced bell pepper or some finely chopped carrots to the meatball mixture for extra vegetables.
- If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of chipotle peppers or omit the cayenne pepper altogether.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms.
- Feel free to experiment with other spices, such as smoked paprika or ancho chili powder.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe makes about 6 servings. Nutritional information will vary based on the specific ingredients used. Expect roughly:
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This Albondigas Al Chipotle recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that's perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. The combination of spicy chipotle peppers and tender meatballs in a rich tomato broth creates a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Enjoy this delicious and healthy meal!