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A Delightful Treat: Air Fryer Meatballs

In recent years, the air fryer has become a go-to kitchen appliance for many households, bringing the joy of crispy, golden textures with a fraction of the oil typically required for frying. One of the crowd-pleasing dishes you can prepare with this versatile gadget is meatballs. Easy to make and bursting with flavour, air fryer meatballs are the perfect addition to pasta, sandwiches, or enjoyed on their own as a tasty snack. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of crafting these delectable bites, ensuring they become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Why Use an Air Fryer?

The air fryer mimics traditional frying techniques while requiring far less oil, resulting in a healthier meal without sacrificing taste. With rapidly circulating hot air, the air fryer can cook food evenly and quickly, giving your meatballs a beautifully crisp exterior without drying them out.

Ingredients

To make air fryer meatballs, you will need the following simple ingredients:

• 500g minced beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 50g breadcrumbs (preferably fresh for a softer texture)
• 30g grated Parmesan cheese (optional, but highly recommended)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Cooking spray or a little olive oil, for greasing the air fryer basket

Optional Additions:

• Chilli flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick
• A splash of Worcestershire sauce for added depth of flavour
• Zucchini or carrots, finely grated, for extra moisture and nutrition

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced meat, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and oregano. Season the mixture generously with salt and pepper.

2. Mix the ingredients thoroughly using your hands or a wooden spoon. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough meatballs.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

1. With clean hands, take small portions of the mixture, approximately the size of a golf ball, and roll them into uniform spheres. This ensures even cooking.

2. Place the prepared meatballs on a plate or tray, ready for cooking.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

1. Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for about five minutes. This step is crucial for achieving the desired crispy texture.

Step 4: Cook the Meatballs

1. Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with olive oil to prevent sticking.

2. Place the meatballs in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.

3. Air fry the meatballs for 10-12 minutes, turning them halfway through. They should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) to ensure they’re safely cooked.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Remove the meatballs from the air fryer and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Serve them drenched in your favourite sauce, nestled on a bed of spaghetti, or simply garnished with fresh herbs as a snack.

Tips for Perfect Meatballs

• Resting the Mixture: Consider letting your meatball mixture sit for about 15 minutes before forming the balls; this allows the flavours to meld.

• Uniform Size: Aim for consistent sizes to ensure even cooking. A small ice cream scoop or a spoon can help achieve this.

• Experiment with Flavours: Feel free to play with herbs and spices based on your preferences. Basil, thyme, or even some crushed nuts can beautifully enhance the flavour profile.

Conclusion

Air fryer meatballs are not only quick and straightforward to prepare, but they also offer endless possibilities for variations and pairings. With a deliciously crispy exterior and a juicy centre, these meatballs are destined to impress family and friends alike. So, grab your air fryer, whip up a batch, and savour the delightful taste of homemade meatballs with all the health benefits of air frying. Bon appétit!