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Savoury Delights: Instant Pot BBQ Meatballs

If you’re on the lookout for a quick and delectable dish that can satisfy the appetites of family and friends alike, look no further than Instant Pot BBQ meatballs. Perfect for an array of occasions—from casual family dinners to festive gatherings—these succulent meatballs are glazed in a rich barbecue sauce, making them a guaranteed hit.

Why Choose the Instant Pot?

The Instant Pot has revolutionised the way we cook, allowing us to whip up flavourful meals in a fraction of the time traditionally required. It combines several cooking methods, including pressure cooking, sautéing, and slow cooking, making it a versatile addition to any kitchen. With the Instant Pot, you can achieve tender, juicy meatballs in about 30 minutes, cutting down the time without sacrificing flavour.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create your BBQ meatballs, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• For the meatballs:

  • 500g minced beef (or a mix of pork and beef, if preferred)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 100g breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried parsley
• For the BBQ sauce:
  • 240ml BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional, depending on your sweetness preference)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatballs:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced meat, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, pepper, oregano, and parsley. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overwork the mixture.
   • Roll the mixture into small balls, about 3-4cm in diameter, and set them aside on a plate.

2. Sauté in the Instant Pot:

   • Set your Instant Pot to the ‘Sauté’ function. Once it’s hot, add a splash of oil and carefully place the meatballs in the pot. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, turning gently until browned on the outside. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding.

3. Prepare the Sauce:

   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar (if using). Pour this mixture over the browned meatballs in the Instant Pot.

4. Pressure Cook:

   • Close the Instant Pot lid and ensure the valve is set to ‘Seal’. Select the ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ setting and set the timer for 10 minutes.
   • Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes before doing a quick release for any remaining pressure.
5. Serve:
   • Carefully open the lid and give the meatballs a gentle stir. They should be tender and coated in the glossy BBQ sauce. Serve immediately, either on their own, in a sub, or alongside a fresh salad.

Variations to Try

One of the advantages of making BBQ meatballs is the versatility in flavours. Here are a few variations you might consider:

• Spicy BBQ Meatballs: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture for a spicy kick.
• Sweet and Sour: Swap out the BBQ sauce for a sweet and sour sauce, creating a delightful twist.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the minced meat with plant-based alternatives, ensuring to adjust the cooking times as needed.

Conclusion

Instant Pot BBQ meatballs are not only easy to make but also promise to deliver a burst of flavour with every bite. Whether served at a party, as a cosy family dinner, or even as a snack during the big match, this dish is sure to become a firm favourite in your culinary repertoire. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the delightful aroma of homemade BBQ meatballs wafting through your home!

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