Parmesan Rose Veal Meatballs Recipe
Author: Farmer Kelley
INGREDIENTS
For the meatballs
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/2 cup fine breadcrumbs
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1 egg
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tbsp finely chopped parsley
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1/4 cup milk
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1 tsp salt
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1/2 tsp black pepper
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1/2 tsp dried oregano
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2 tbsp olive oil, for cooking
For the sauce
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1 tbsp olive oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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1 tbsp tomato paste
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1 can crushed tomatoes, about 14 to 15 oz
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1/2 cup water or stock
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1/2 tsp dried oregano
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1/2 tsp dried basil or 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil
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Salt, to taste
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Black pepper, to taste
For serving
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Extra Parmesan, grated
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Fresh parsley or basil
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Pasta, crusty bread, or polenta
Instructions
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In a large bowl, combine the rose veal, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, parsley, milk, salt, black pepper, and oregano. Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
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Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches wide. Set them on a plate or tray.
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Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs in batches for about 6 to 8 minutes, turning gently so they color on all sides. They do not need to be fully cooked through at this stage. Transfer them to a plate.
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In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon olive oil if needed. Cook the onion over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
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Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Add the crushed tomatoes, water or stock, oregano, and basil. Season lightly with salt and black pepper.
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Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Return the meatballs to the pan, cover partially, and simmer on low for 20 to 25 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
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Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. Spoon over extra Parmesan and fresh parsley or basil before serving.
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Serve warm with pasta, crusty bread, or soft polenta.
