Cherry Pomegranate Mini Meatballs That Bring Sweet Heat to the Party
Sweet, tangy, and just spicy enough to keep things interesting—these little meatballs disappear faster than you can say just one more
Ingredients:
- 1/2-pound 80% lean ground beef
- 1/2-pound ground pork
- 1/3 cup panko
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for garnish
- 2 garlic cloves, grated (about 1 teaspoon)
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 cup Peppers of Key West Cherry Pomegranate Habanero Grilling Sauce
- 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, divided
- 2 teaspoons finely chopped canned chipotle chiles in adobo sauce plus 2 tablespoons adobo sauce from can, divided
- 1/4 cup chicken stock
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Directions:
- Preheat oven to broil with rack about 7 inches from heat.
- Stir together beef, pork, panko, egg, cilantro, garlic, salt, paprika, black pepper, coriander, Peppers of Key West Cherry Pomegranate Habanero Grilling Sauce, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, and 2 teaspoons chopped chipotle in adobo in a large bowl until combined.
- Divide pork mixture into 20 even portions (about 2 tablespoons each); roll each portion into a 1 1/2-inch ball.
- Arrange meatballs on an aluminum foil–lined baking sheet, spacing at least 1 inch apart.
- Broil until golden brown on top, 5 to 6 minutes.
- Meanwhile, combine stock, vinegar, remaining 1/4 cup pepper jelly, remaining 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, and remaining 2 tablespoons adobo sauce in a large skillet.
- Bring to a simmer over medium; simmer, whisking often, until slightly thickened, 2 to 3 minutes.
- Transfer meatballs to skillet; cook, tossing often, until evenly coated in sauce and an instant-read thermometer inserted in center of meatball registers 160°F, about 3 minutes.
- Transfer meatballs and sauce to a serving bowl; serve hot.
Feel free to replace the Peppers of Key West Cherry Pomegranate with any of our other jelly favorites.
- Catch a Fire’s Mango Pepper Jelly
- Fischer & Wieser’s Hot Serrano Pepper Jelly
- Terrapin Ridge Farm’s Blueberry Bourbon Pecan Jam
- Terrapin Ridge Farm’s Mango Habanero Jam
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes these meatballs unique?
It’s the bold combo of sweet cherry, tart pomegranate, and heat from Peppers of Key West Cherry Pomegranate Habanero Grilling Sauce.
Are these meatballs spicy?
They have a mild to medium heat depending on how much sauce you use, balanced with sweet and tangy flavors.
Can I use frozen meatballs?
Yes, frozen meatballs work great—just heat them and toss in the sauce until fully coated.
What type of meat is best?
Beef, pork, turkey, or a blend all work well depending on your preference.
How should I serve them?
Serve as an appetizer with toothpicks, over rice, or in a sub roll for a sweet and spicy sandwich.
