Lion’s Head Meatballs

Explore the rich culinary landscape of China with the traditional Lion’s Head Meatballs recipe, a dish that combines succulent pork meatballs with delicate flavors and a rich, savory sauce. Originating from Eastern China, this dish is known for its large meatballs, which are said to resemble the shape of a lion’s head, and the bok choy represents the mane, symbolizing good fortune and joy in Chinese culture.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Resting Time: N/A
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Serving: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground pork (with a good fat content, about 20%)
• 4 large Napa cabbage leaves or bok choy
• 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for a gluten-free version, use crushed rice crackers)
• Salt and white pepper to taste
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Method:

1. Prepare the Meatballs:
   • In a large bowl, combine ground pork, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sugar, minced ginger, green onions, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and white pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
   • Wet your hands and form the mixture into 4 large, round meatballs.
2. Brown the Meatballs:
   • Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Gently add the meatballs and brown them on all sides. Remove and set aside.
3. Prepare the Greens:
   • Blanch the Napa cabbage leaves or bok choy in boiling water for 1-2 minutes until slightly wilted. Drain and set aside.
4. Braise:
   • In a large pot, add the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Carefully place the meatballs in the broth, cover, and simmer on low heat for about 40 minutes.
   • Add the blanched greens around the meatballs, cover, and cook for an additional 10 minutes until the greens are tender.

Notes:

• For a lighter version, pork can be mixed with ground turkey.
• Serve with steamed rice or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preference, adding more soy sauce or sugar if desired.

Nutritional Information per Serving (Based on USDA Guidelines):

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Sugars: 3g

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