Description
Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli is a sweet-savory dish with juicy meatballs in a rich Mongolian sauce, served with crisp-tender broccoli. Perfect for weeknights or meal prep!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (for sauce)
- White or black sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
Preparing the Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef or turkey with garlic, ginger, green onions, soy sauce, egg, panko breadcrumbs, and cornstarch. Stir until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1-inch in diameter.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, ensuring they do not overcrowd the pan.
- Cook until golden brown on all sides and fully cooked through (about 8-10 minutes). Remove from the pan and set aside.
Making the Mongolian Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, cornstarch, and water.
- Pour the sauce into the same skillet used for cooking the meatballs. Stir over medium heat until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
- Return the meatballs to the skillet, tossing them in the sauce until they are fully coated.
Preparing the Broccoli:
- In a separate pan, heat vegetable oil and stir-fry the broccoli until it is bright green and crisp-tender.
- Optionally, add a splash of water to steam the broccoli for a softer texture.
Serving:
- Plate the Mongolian meatballs over a bed of rice or noodles, then add the cooked broccoli on the side.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and extra green onions before serving.
Notes
- Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or Sriracha to the sauce for a spicy version.
- Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free soy sauce and substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free panko.
- Vegetarian Twist – Replace the meatballs with tofu or plant-based meat alternatives.
- Different Proteins – Try using ground chicken, pork, or even lamb for a different flavor profile.
- Extra Veggies – Add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for more color and nutrients.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian, Chinese-Inspired
Keywords: Mongolian meatballs, Asian meatballs, sticky meatballs, beef meatballs, easy dinner recipe