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Asian Glazed Turkey Meatballs

Asian Glazed Turkey Meatballs

Asian Glazed Turkey Meatballs are tender, juicy meatballs coated in a delicious sweet and savory glaze made from soy, honey, ginger, and garlic. This recipe offers a healthy, lean protein option that is quick and easy to prepare, perfect as an appetizer or main dish with vibrant Asian-inspired flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatball Mixture

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
  • 3 green onions, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (use gluten-free soy sauce if needed)

Glaze

  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (gluten-free optional)
  • 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar (maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as alternatives)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil (plus extra for cooking)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, gently combine ground turkey, panko breadcrumbs, finely chopped green onions, minced garlic and ginger, and soy sauce. Mix carefully to avoid overworking the meat which can make meatballs tough.
  2. Shape the Meatballs: Using your hands or a small ice cream scoop, form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs about one inch in diameter for uniform cooking.
  3. Cook the Meatballs: Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of sesame oil. Brown the meatballs on all sides until golden but not fully cooked through, turning carefully to keep their shape.
  4. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, chili flakes (if using), and sesame oil. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the browned meatballs and reduce heat to low.
  5. Simmer and Coat: Let the meatballs simmer gently in the glaze for 5-7 minutes, turning them carefully to coat evenly. The glaze will thicken and cling to the meatballs, creating a sticky, flavorful finish.
  6. Serve Hot: Once the glaze is thick and shiny, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the Asian Glazed Turkey Meatballs immediately for best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Don’t overmix the meat mixture to keep meatballs tender.
  • Use a scoop for uniform meatball sizing to ensure even cooking.
  • Simmer glaze on low heat to reduce without burning.
  • Fresh garlic and ginger deliver the best authentic flavor.
  • A non-stick skillet helps keep meatballs intact during cooking.
  • Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and soy sauce to make the recipe gluten-free.

Nutrition

Keywords: Asian glazed turkey meatballs, healthy meatballs, gluten-free meatballs, sweet and savory meatballs, quick dinner, lean protein, sticky glaze