SWEET CHILLI MINI MEATBALLS

A dish that combines mini meatballs with the kick of sweet chilli sauce, all intertwined in a complimentary fusion of flavours. This recipe not only promises a scrumptious meal but also takes you through each step, making it an enjoyable experience for both novice and seasoned cooks.

PREP 15m

COOK 15m

TOTAL 30m

SERVES 2

Ingredients-

  • 1 onion, finely diced

  • 4 garlic cloves, finely diced

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 6 sausages (skins removed and meat divided into 4 mini meatballs per sausage)

  • 2 tablespoons sweet chilli sauce

  • 1/2 tablespoon chopped chilli (adjust to taste for spiciness)

  • 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper

  • 150g Spaghetti or Linguine

Instructions-

  1. To Start:

    Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the finely sliced onions and garlic and wait as the ingredients caramelise.

  2. Mini Meatballs:

    Now, it's time to introduce the main ingredient – the mini sausage meatballs. Remove the skins from six sausages and skilfully divide the meat into four mini meatballs per sausage. As they sizzle in the pan, witness the transformation as they turn evenly browned on all sides, achieving a perfect cook.

  3. Sweet Chilli:

    Add 2 tablespoons of sweet chilli sauce, chopped chilli, and canned chopped tomatoes to the mix. Let these ingredients simmer, allowing the flavours to meld. Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon each of salt and pepper, elevating the dish with a perfect balance of seasoning.

  4. Pasta Prelude:

    While your meatballs are simmering, bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Choose your favourite pasta – perhaps spaghetti or linguine for its classic charm. Cook your choice of pasta in salted water.

  5. Fusion:

    With your pasta cooked, it's time for the grand finale. Add it to the simmering sauce, ensuring each strand is coated in the mixture. For that extra touch of silkiness, reserve a cup of pasta water. Gently fold it in, allowing the sauce to coat the pasta with a velvety texture.

  6. Serve:

    Your Sweet Chilli Mini Meatballs with Pasta now ready. Serve with freshly diced basil or a sprinkle of Parmesan.

Tips and Variations-

  • For a spicy kick, increase the amount of chopped chilli or add a dash of hot sauce to the sweet chilli sauce.

  • Experiment with different pasta shapes for a fun twist – try fusilli or penne for a change of texture.

  • Enhance the sauce with a splash of balsamic vinegar for a nuanced flavour profile.

  • Make it a one-pan wonder by sautéing vegetables like bell peppers and courgettes along with the onions and garlic.

  • Don't forget to reserve some pasta water; it's the secret ingredient for achieving the perfect sauce consistency. Adjust the quantity based on your preference for sauciness.