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the-best-meatballs-(ever)

These are the best meatballs (ever) & I have my ten toes down on that statement. Forget your Aunt Sue's recipe for cocktail meatballs passed down for generations –– these will surely knock those out of the park. Here's why: the recipe starts with a combo of ground pork & beef. This creates a juicier & more robust base for us to play off of. Next are the binders: pre-whisked eggs –– to ensure even distribution in the meat mixture, panko breadcrumbs & coconut milk. However, coconut milk's role is three-fold: providing additional moisture to the balls & a hint of nuttiness. Now strap in because you've been provided a one-way ticket to flavor town: the meatballs have 10 flavor additives including lime leaf, which is the most essential — in my opinion, massaman curry paste, fish sauce, green onions & fresno chili peppers. Don't fret if you can't find any of the ingredients at your local grocers. One trip & fifteen minutes at an Asian market is your solution. Once the balls are thoroughly mixed, rolled & placed in the oven to bake, you'll pivot to prepping the cherry on top: crispy fried shallots. After you spend 100 years slicing them into thin rings (pro-tip: use a mandolin), you'll fry the shallots low'n'slow in vegetable oil. This process does take a bit of time & patience but once shallots start to turn from white to a golden hue, time is of the essence. Work quickly to get them in the strainer. To serve, I plate the meatballs, meticulously place small leaves of mint throughout, pour over hot massaman curry (highly recommend) & top each meatball with a bit of crispy fried shallots. Serve immediately to get the full effect of the synergy: those juicy meatballs, hot'n'creamy massaman curry & crunchy shallots. NOTE: This recipe does not include a homemade massaman curry; I have a go-to but I know y'all aren't trying to do all of that. I recommend purchasing the massaman curry paste & reserving some for your sauce. Just combine with coconut milk for a super-fast (but tasty) option.

Ingredients