Black Pepper Meatballs Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon black tea powder
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (for thickening)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare the Black Tea Marinade:

• In a small bowl, mix the black tea powder with the boiling water. Allow the tea to steep for 3-4 minutes, then strain and let it cool. This mixture will be used to add a unique flavor to the meatballs.

Prepare the Meatball Mixture:

• In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, minced garlic, ground black pepper, salt, ground cumin, ground coriander, and cayenne pepper (if using).
• Add the eggs and breadcrumbs to the bowl and mix well.
• Gradually add the cooled black tea marinade to the mixture, stirring until everything is well combined.

Form the Meatballs:

• Roll the mixture into golf-sized meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place them on a plate or tray.

Cook the Meatballs:

• Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
• Brown the meatballs on all sides, turning occasionally, for about 5 minutes. Do this in batches if necessary.
• Once browned, transfer the meatballs to a plate and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce:

• In the same skillet, add the beef broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and tomato paste. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
• Stir in the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce has reached your desired consistency.

Finish and Serve:

• Return the meatballs to the skillet and coat them with the sauce, allowing them to heat through and absorb the flavors, about 3-4 minutes.
• Serve the black pepper meatballs with the sauce drizzled over the top, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
• Enjoy your Black Pepper Meatballs with a hint of black tea flavor, perfect for a hearty meal or a casual get-together with friends. The tender meatballs and savory sauce create a delicious and satisfying dish.