This one-time appetizer recipe was changed many times because of my family’s insistence that it eventually became a main course. I think it’s the homemade sauce that sets these meatballs apart.

Teriyaki Meatballs are a flavorful and savory dish that combines juicy meatballs with a delicious homemade teriyaki sauce. The dish features a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, with the tangy pineapple chunks adding a refreshing twist. Teriyaki Meatballs are versatile and can be served as an appetizer, a main course, or even as a party snack.

The origins of teriyaki can be traced back to Japan, where it originated as a cooking technique in the 17th century. The word “teriyaki” comes from the Japanese words “teri,” meaning glossy or shiny, and “yaki,” meaning grilled or broiled. Traditionally, teriyaki referred to a method of cooking meat or fish by glazing it with a mixture of soy sauce, mirin (a sweet rice wine), and sugar.

Teriyaki sauce quickly gained popularity in Japan and eventually made its way to the Western world, where it became widely recognized and beloved. The combination of the umami flavors from soy sauce, the sweetness from sugar or honey, and the tanginess from vinegar creates a mouthwatering sauce that enhances the taste of various dishes.

Teriyaki Meatballs are a creative twist on traditional teriyaki dishes. The meatballs are made with a blend of ground beef, onions, peppers, breadcrumbs, and spices. They are then baked and coated with a homemade teriyaki sauce, allowing the flavors to infuse and create a tantalizing taste experience. The addition of pineapple chunks adds a burst of sweetness and texture to the meatballs, making them even more delightful.

PREP: 20 MIN.

BAKE: 20 MIN.

MAKES: 42 MEATBALLS

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cans (8 ounces each) pineapple chunks
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• ¼ cup finely chopped sweet yellow pepper
• ¼ cup finely chopped sweet red pepper
• ½ cup dry bread crumbs
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 pound lean ground beef

FOR SAUCE:

• ¼ cup canola oil
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Drain the pineapple chunks, reserving ¼ cup juice. Set the pineapple aside.
2. In a bowl, combine the finely chopped onion, sweet yellow pepper, sweet red pepper, bread crumbs, ground ginger, salt, and reserved pineapple juice.
3. Crumble the lean ground beef over the mixture and mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
4. Shape the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
5. Place the sauce ingredients (canola oil, soy sauce, honey, white vinegar, garlic powder, and ground ginger) in a blender. Cover and process for 1 minute until the sauce is well blended.
6. Grease a 13×9-inch baking dish and spread 2 tablespoons of the sauce on the bottom.
7. Add the meatballs to the baking dish, arranging them evenly.
8. Pour the remaining sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are well coated.
9. Bake the Teriyaki Meatballs, uncovered, at 400°F for 20 minutes or until the meatballs are no longer pink.
10. Place one pineapple chunk on top of each meatball and secure it with a toothpick.

Enjoy these delicious Teriyaki Meatballs as a flavorful appetizer or as a main course accompanied by steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables. The combination of savory meatballs, tangy teriyaki sauce, and juicy pineapple will delight your taste buds and leave you craving for more.