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Apple Cider Turkey Meatballs

Healthy Apple Cider Turkey Meatballs for Cozy Nights

These Apple Cider Turkey Meatballs blend comfort food with health in a delicious, quick dish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 meatballs
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 lb Ground Turkey Use 93% lean
  • 1/2 cup Apple Cider
  • 1/2 cup Whole Wheat Breadcrumbs For gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs
  • 1 large Egg
  • 1/2 cup Onion (Finely Diced)
  • 2 cloves Garlic (Minced)
For the Spices
  • 1 tsp Cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp Nutmeg Use ground for convenience
  • 1/4 tsp Allspice
For the Freshness
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Herbs (Sage and Thyme) Dried alternatives can be used
For the Glaze
  • 1/4 cup Maple Syrup
  • 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard

Equipment

  • large mixing bowl
  • Skillet
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, whole wheat breadcrumbs, egg, finely diced onion, minced garlic, and the warm spices: cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Add the fresh herbs like sage and thyme to enhance the flavor profile. Gently mix until just combined.
  2. With clean hands or a scoop, portion the mixture into about 20 evenly sized meatballs, each roughly 1.5 inches in diameter. If time allows, chill the meatballs in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once shimmering, add the meatballs in a single layer and sear for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
  4. In the same skillet, add the apple cider, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard. Stir to combine and simmer for about 3-5 minutes, allowing the glaze to thicken.
  5. Return the cooked Apple Cider Turkey Meatballs to the skillet, tossing them gently in the glaze. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until thoroughly coated and heated through.

Nutrition

Serving: 4meatballsCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 30gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

These meatballs can be made gluten-free using appropriate substitutes. For a healthier option, consider baking instead of frying.

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