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Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs: A Tasty and Healthy Delight

Turkey meatballs are a versatile dish that can fit into various cuisines and meal plans. With the advent of air fryers, preparing these delightful bites has never been easier and healthier. Air fryer turkey meatballs are not only lower in fat compared to traditional frying methods, but they also retain moisture and flavour, making them an ideal choice for busy families and health-conscious individuals alike.

Why Choose Turkey?

Turkey is a lean source of protein, which makes it a great alternative to beef or pork in meatballs. It’s less fatty, lower in calories, and packed with essential nutrients such as B vitamins, selenium, and zinc. This makes turkey a fantastic option for those wanting to maintain a healthy lifestyle without compromising on taste.

The Benefits of Air Frying

Using an air fryer significantly cuts down on the amount of oil needed for cooking, which can help reduce overall calorie intake. The air fryer circulates hot air around the food, creating a crispy exterior while keeping the interior moist. This not only enhances the flavour of your turkey meatballs but also results in a quicker cooking time. It’s a win-win situation for any home cook!

Ingredients

To make air fryer turkey meatballs, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 500g ground turkey
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (wholemeal or gluten-free as desired)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: Chilli flakes for a bit of heat

Instructions

Step 1: Preparation

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, onion, herbs, salt, and pepper. If you’re using chilli flakes, add them now. Mix until everything is evenly incorporated, but be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.

2. Shape the Meatballs: With your hands, form the mixture into meatballs, approximately the size of a golf ball. You should get about 16-20 meatballs depending on your size preference.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating your air fryer is essential for even cooking. Set it to 180°C (356°F) and let it heat for about 3-5 minutes.

Step 2: Cooking

1. Place the Meatballs in the Air Fryer: Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray or a little oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the meatballs in a single layer, leaving space between each to allow for proper air circulation. You may need to cook in batches if your air fryer is small.

2. Cooking Time: Cook the meatballs for 12-15 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure an even cook. The internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F). The meatballs should be golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside.

Step 3: Serving

Once cooked, place the meatballs on a serving platter and garnish with fresh parsley. These air fryer turkey meatballs can be enjoyed with a variety of accompaniments, such as marinara sauce and spaghetti, in a sub sandwich with melted cheese, or simply as a protein-packed snack.

Extra Tips

• Customise Your Flavours: Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs. You can use cumin and coriander for a Middle Eastern twist or soy sauce and ginger for an Asian flair.

• Meal Prep: These meatballs freeze well. You can batch-cook them and store them in an airtight container. They can be reheated in the air fryer straight from frozen, making them a perfect handy meal option.

• Dipping Sauces: Serve your turkey meatballs with a selection of dips like tzatziki, BBQ sauce, or a spicy sriracha mayo for added flavour.

Conclusion

Air fryer turkey meatballs are not only healthy but also incredibly satisfying and delicious. They make for a quick weeknight dinner, a delightful appetiser for parties, or a nutritious snack anytime. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a batch of these delectable meatballs that everyone will love. Enjoy the ease and flavour of this fantastic dish—your taste buds will thank you!