Meatballs in Tomato Sauce (Tefteli) - Russian Food - Тефтели в томатном соусе

ground meat

🥗Healthier: ground turkey

💰Cheaper: ground pork

Ground turkey is lower in fat, while ground pork is often less expensive.

bread crumbs

🥗Healthier: oats

💰Cheaper: crushed crackers

Oats provide fiber and are healthier, while crushed crackers are budget-friendly.

tomato sauce

🥗Healthier: homemade tomato puree

💰Cheaper: canned tomatoes

Homemade puree is fresher, while canned tomatoes are often cheaper.

milk

🥗Healthier: plant-based milk

💰Cheaper: water

Plant-based milk can reduce lactose, while water is a cost-effective substitute.

In a large bowl, combine minced pork and minced beef.

Add rice, 2 eggs, sour cream, mixed Italian herbs, salt, black pepper, garlic salt, grated carrot, and grated onion to the bowl.

Mix all ingredients with hands until well combined.

Melt butter in a skillet and add grated carrot and onion, sautéing until softened.

Add tomato puree and flour to the skillet, mixing well.

Stir in the can of chopped tomatoes and a bit of water to loosen the sauce.

Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and sugar, then simmer for about 30 minutes.

Form the meat mixture into large balls and fry in a hot skillet with butter and oil until browned on all sides.

Transfer the browned meatballs into the sauce and cover with a lid.

Simmer the meatballs in the sauce for 30 to 60 minutes until cooked through.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

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