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Crispy Firecracker Meatballs with Spicy Glaze

crispy firecracker meatballs - featured image

A quick and easy snack featuring crispy meatballs coated in a sticky, spicy glaze combining honey, sriracha, and soy sauce for a bold and addictive flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef or pork (or mix both)
  • ½ cup (50g) plain or panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 2 stalks green onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp freshly grated ginger
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 2 tbsp sriracha (or more to taste)
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 3 tbsp vegetable oil (or avocado oil)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, green onions, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined, about 5 minutes.
  2. Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons (20g) of mixture and roll into tight, even balls. Aim for 20-25 meatballs. Takes about 10 minutes.
  3. In a small saucepan, whisk together soy sauce, honey, sriracha, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes if using. Warm over medium heat until bubbling gently and thick enough to coat a spoon, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat.
  4. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Fry meatballs in a single layer without crowding for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Work in batches if needed, about 12-15 minutes total.
  5. Drain meatballs briefly on paper towels, then toss gently in the warm spicy glaze until fully coated, about 3 minutes.
  6. Serve immediately, garnished with extra sliced green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat mixture to avoid tough meatballs. Fry in batches to prevent steaming and ensure crispiness. Warm glaze if it thickens before tossing. For gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari instead of soy sauce. For vegan, use plant-based meat alternatives and substitute honey with maple syrup.

Nutrition

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