Description
These Firecracker Meatballs are packed with bold flavors and served with a creamy, slightly spicy sauce that complements the savory meatballs perfectly. Paired with fragrant coconut rice and crisp-tender green beans, this dish is a standout that will surely become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Coconut Rice:
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1 tablespoon sesame oil (or olive oil, or avocado oil)
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2 tablespoons sesame seeds
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1 cup jasmine rice, rinsed and drained
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1 cup full-fat coconut milk
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3/4 cup water
Firecracker Meatballs and Green Beans:
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1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (gluten-free if needed)
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1/4 cup milk (any kind)
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1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
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4 scallions, sliced and divided
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2 teaspoons fresh grated ginger
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon kosher salt
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1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
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3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
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1 lb fresh green beans, ends trimmed
Firecracker Sauce:
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1/4 cup mayo (we used Primal Kitchen)
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1/4 cup sour cream (dairy-free if needed)
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2 tablespoons sriracha or buffalo sauce (plus more to taste)
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3 tablespoons coconut aminos or low-sodium soy sauce
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1 tablespoon honey
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2 teaspoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
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Red chili flakes or Korean chili crunch (to taste)
Instructions
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Prepare the Coconut Rice:
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Heat the sesame oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add sesame seeds and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
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Add the rinsed rice, coconut milk, and water to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
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Make the Meatballs:
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In a large bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, milk, ground beef, 2 tablespoons of scallions, grated ginger, garlic, kosher salt, and red pepper flakes. Mix until well combined, then form the mixture into meatballs (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter).
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Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs in batches, turning them to brown on all sides and cook through (about 8-10 minutes). Remove and set aside.
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Cook the Green Beans:
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In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the green beans and sauté until they are tender-crisp (about 5-7 minutes). Season with a pinch of salt and set aside.
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Make the Firecracker Sauce:
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In a small bowl, whisk together mayo, sour cream, sriracha or buffalo sauce, coconut aminos (or soy sauce), honey, rice vinegar, and red chili flakes. Taste and adjust seasoning or heat as desired.
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Assemble the Dish:
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Serve the coconut rice topped with firecracker meatballs and green beans. Drizzle with the firecracker sauce and garnish with the remaining scallions. Add extra chili flakes or Korean chili crunch if desired.
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Notes
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For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free sour cream and mayo.
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Adjust the amount of sriracha or buffalo sauce based on your spice preference.
- You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired