Sesame Pork Meatballs with Cucumber Salad

Name: Sesame Pork Meatballs with Cucumber Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Quebecois
Ingredients: 500 g ground pork; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp sesame oil; 2 tbsp green onions (finely chopped); 1 clove garlic (minced); 1 tbsp sesame seeds (toasted); 1 egg (beaten); 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 2 cucumbers (thinly sliced); 2 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp sugar; 1 tsp salt

40 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

Savoury sesame pork meatballs paired with a refreshing cucumber salad for a delightful meal.

Prep

20 min

Cook

20 min

Total

40 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Pork meatballs are a versatile and delicious dish that can be flavoured in endless ways. Our sesame pork meatballs feature a delightful blend of savoury and nutty flavours, enhanced by the addition of sesame oil and seeds. These meatballs are easy to make and pair beautifully with a refreshing cucumber salad. The cucumber salad adds a cooling element to the dish, balancing the rich flavours of the meatballs. It's a simple combination of crisp cucumbers and a tangy dressing that complements the boldness of the sesame pork.

Instructions

Prepare the cucumber salad

In a bowl, combine thinly sliced cucumbers with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Toss well and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Pro tip: Chilling enhances the flavours.

Mix the meatball ingredients

In a large bowl, combine ground pork, soy sauce, sesame oil, green onions, garlic, sesame seeds, beaten egg, and breadcrumbs. Mix until just combined.

Pro tip: Avoid over-mixing to keep meatballs tender.

Form the meatballs

Using your hands or a scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch (2.5 cm) meatballs.

Pro tip: A consistent size ensures even cooking.

Cook the meatballs

Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a light coating of oil and cook the meatballs until browned on all sides and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), about 10-12 minutes.

Pro tip: Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Toast the sesame seeds

In a small pan, toast sesame seeds over medium heat until golden brown, about 3-5 minutes.

Pro tip: Watch closely to prevent burning.

Serve

Arrange the meatballs on a serving platter. Drizzle with additional sesame oil if desired, and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds. Serve alongside the chilled cucumber salad.

Pro tip: Garnish with extra green onions for a fresh touch.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Chill the cucumber salad while you prepare the meatballs for enhanced flavour.
Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized meatballs.
Toast sesame seeds for a nuttier flavour.
Serve meatballs with rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Thai pork meatballs?

Thai pork meatballs typically feature ingredients like lemongrass, garlic, and fish sauce. This recipe uses sesame and soy for a different twist.

How do I make Chinese-style meatballs?

Chinese-style meatballs often include soy sauce, ginger, and green onions, similar to this recipe but may also include water chestnuts or five-spice powder.

What makes meatballs Thai?

Thai meatballs are usually flavoured with ingredients like lemongrass, lime leaves, and fish sauce. This recipe focuses on sesame flavours instead.

How long do I cook pork meatballs?

Cook pork meatballs until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C), approximately 10-12 minutes on medium-high heat.

Can these meatballs be baked instead?

Yes, bake them in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for about 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Serving Suggestions

Serve these sesame pork meatballs with cucumber salad alongside steamed rice or your favourite noodles for a complete meal. The dish can be made ahead by preparing the meatballs and salad separately and then combining them just before serving. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the meatballs in a microwave or oven, and enjoy the salad cold for best results.

Nutrition per serving

400

Calories

24g

Protein

26g

Fat

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