Even if you don’t have an Italian grandmother, the taste of a home-made
baked meatballis a memorable one. They’re comforting, tasty and versatile. A peek at restaurant menus shows that chefs are getting more creative in their use of this classic Italian staple, known as much for its simple preparation as its classic taste.
No longer are meatballs just restricted to being served on top of spaghetti with marinara sauce, or on a hero roll as a sub. They’re present in many parts of the menu, with influences from around the world.
Here are ten recent menu finds for meatballs:
1. Indian Style Meatballs
The increasingly popular, spicy Asian influence of Indian food meets the classic taste of meatballs in this newcomer, which can be served with rice and a yogurt based sauce to balance a strong combination of Indian spices like curry, cumin and chili pepper.
2. Chinese Meatballs
Another favorite with Asian influence is Chinese meatballs, served on a stick with sweet and sour chili sauce infused with uses lemongrass, cilantro and minced red jalapeno to create a taste sensation.
3. Meatball Soup
Some variations of the traditional Italian Wedding Soup have mini-meatballs in them, so it’s not exactly a new trend, but meatballs can make a soup memorable, whether it’s based on a chicken or beef broth.
4. Barbecued Meatballs
Meatballs smothered in BBQ sauce then slow-baked in the oven for a distinct texture with the classic barbecue taste. Great as an appetizer with cornbread or served with toothpicks.
5. Mushroom Meatballs
Meatballs are simmered in a creamy mushroom soup, which pairs the meaty flavor and texture of meatballs with the distinct taste of mushrooms for a savory combination.
6. Meatball Pizzas
What, you thought that meaty pizza toppings were limited to pepperoni and sausage? Sliced baked meatballs are a natural fit on top of a pie-and very popular with diners.
7. Meatball Calzones
Similar to pizza, calzones are a natural fit for the classic flavor of baked meatballs, especially because the dough seals in the flavorful juices from the meatballs as they bake.
8. Sweet and Sour Meatball Salad
Try Swedish-style baked meatballs with some sweet flavors (onions, pineapple, brown sugar) served with simple greens and a taste of fruit for a new menu sensation in the salad section.
9. Greek Meatballs
The Italians are not the only Mediterranean food culture known for its delicious meatballs. Generations of Greeks have been feasting on the baked meatball dish known as keftedakia is marked by the presence of Ouzo, an anise-flavored flavor. To round out the meal, it is usually served with a Greek salad with feta and tzatziki sauce.
10. Cajun Meatballs
This appetizer is a favorite in New Orleans and features zesty Cajun flavors created by parsley, Worcestershire sauce and hot pepper sauce. There’s even a surprise fruit: peaches.
The lesson is, don’t be afraid to be creative with this classic treat!
New Menu Idea | Athenian Calzone
Premoro® Gyro-Style Beef Topping, fresh spinach, Kalamata olives, ricotta cheese and feta cheese baked in flaky pizza dough.
Also try Premoro® Gyro-Style Beef Topping in pizza, wraps, calzones, pasta dishes and Greek casseroles.
Start with our menu ideas; then add your inspiration to create signature recipes that keep your customers coming back for more.