There’s something magical about the lively atmosphere of a Spanish tapas bar. The clinking of glasses, the hum of conversation, and the irresistible aroma of sizzling albondigas wafting through the air. Today, I’m thrilled to share my favorite recipe for these delectable Spanish meatballs, perfect for your next family dinner or tapas party!
What Are Albondigas?
Albondigas, derived from the Arabic word “al-bunduq” (meaning hazelnut), are traditional Spanish meatballs that have become a staple in tapas cuisine. These juicy, flavor-packed morsels are typically served in a rich tomato sauce, making them ideal for sharing and savoring with loved ones.
Ingredients
For the Albondigas:
- 500g ground beef (80% lean)
- 250g ground pork
- 1 small onion, finely minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Let’s Get Cooking!
- Prepare the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, pork, minced onion, garlic, parsley, egg, breadcrumbs, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Don’t overmix!
- Shape the albondigas: With damp hands, form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a tray and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
- Start the sauce: Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Simmer the sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, bay leaf, and paprika. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Cook the albondigas: Gently add the meatballs to the simmering sauce. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, turning them once halfway through, until they’re cooked through.
- Finish and serve: Remove the bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
For an authentic tapas experience, serve your albondigas alongside crispy patatas bravas. The combination of the juicy meatballs and crispy potatoes is simply irresistible! Don’t forget to provide plenty of crusty bread for soaking up that delicious sauce.
Tips and Variations
- For extra flavor, try adding a splash of red wine to the sauce.
- Experiment with different meats – a mix of beef and lamb can be delicious too!
- Make the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them for quick weeknight dinners.
I hope this recipe brings a taste of Spain to your dinner table! Whether you’re hosting a tapas party or simply craving a comforting meal, these albondigas are sure to impress. Don’t forget to pair them with a glass of robust Spanish red wine for the full experience.
¡Buen provecho!
