1. Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, soy sauce, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to combine the ingredients until evenly mixed.
- Roll the meat mixture into 1-inch balls, making sure each meatball is uniform in size for even cooking.
2. Cook the Meatballs:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the meatballs in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through. (Internal temperature should reach 160°F or 71°C.)
- Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
3. Make the Sweet and Spicy Glaze:
- In the same skillet, whisk together honey, chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes. If you want the sauce to be thicker, add the cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) and stir until the sauce thickens.
4. Coat the Meatballs:
- Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet, tossing them gently in the glaze until they are fully coated.
- Let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
5. Garnish and Serve:
- Transfer the sweet and spicy meatballs to a serving dish and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve them hot, either as an appetizer with toothpicks or over rice or noodles for a main course.
Tips:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili sauce and red pepper flakes based on your spice tolerance. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use less chili sauce and skip the red pepper flakes.
- Meat Variations: You can substitute ground beef with ground pork, turkey, or a mixture of meats for a different flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: The meatballs and sauce can be made ahead of time. Store them separately and toss them together just before serving.
Conclusion
These Sweet and Spicy Meatballs are the perfect combination of flavors, with a sticky glaze that delivers just the right amount of heat and sweetness. Whether you’re serving them as a party appetizer or pairing them with rice for a hearty meal, these meatballs will be a hit every time!