Asturian Style Veal Meatballs (Albóndigas de Ternera a la Asturiana)

Albóndigas de Ternera a la Asturiana, or Asturian Style Veal Meatballs, are a traditional dish from the Asturias region of Spain. These savory meatballs are simmered in a rich tomato sauce, infused with the flavors of Spanish paprika and saffron, making them a comforting and flavorful meal.

Asturian Style Veal Meatballs (Albóndigas de Ternera a la Asturiana)

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground veal
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • 1 tsp Spanish paprika
  • Pinch of saffron threads
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup beef or veal broth

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine the ground veal, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, parsley, paprika, saffron, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  2. Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
  3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, then remove from the skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add the crushed tomatoes and beef or veal broth. Bring to a simmer.
  5. Return the meatballs to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
  6. Serve the Albóndigas de Ternera a la Asturiana hot, with the tomato sauce spooned over the top.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
20 minutes
Cooking time:
30 minutes
Total time:
50 minutes
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Carbohydrates
15g
Protein
25g
Fat
20g

Supplies

Large skillet Bowl Spoon Measuring cups and spoons

Tools

Cooking knife Cutting board Spatula

Serving suggestions

Serve the Albóndigas de Ternera a la Asturiana with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.

Tips & tricks

For extra flavor, you can add a splash of Spanish sherry to the tomato sauce before simmering the meatballs.

Cost

$15