How to Make Thai-Style Grilled Meatballs with Spicy Sauce
If you're looking to spice up your dinner table, Thai-style grilled meatballs with spicy sauce are a delicious choice. These savory bites are packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion. Follow this step-by-step guide to create your own flavorful Thai meatballs.
Ingredients
For the meatballs:
- 1 pound ground pork or chicken
- 1/2 cup minced fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup minced green onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
For the spicy sauce:
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, minced cilantro, chopped green onions, minced garlic, grated ginger, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined, but be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
Step 2: Form the Meatballs
With clean hands, scoop out about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Place the meatballs on a tray or plate. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used, making approximately 20 meatballs.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Prepare your grill for medium-high heat. If you're using a charcoal grill, let the coals burn down until they’re covered with gray ash. For a gas grill, simply turn it on to the desired temperature.
Step 4: Grill the Meatballs
Once the grill is hot, lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the meatballs on the grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning them occasionally until they are nicely charred and fully cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 165°F for chicken or 160°F for pork.
Step 5: Make the Spicy Sauce
While the meatballs are grilling, prepare the spicy sauce. In a small bowl, combine the sweet chili sauce, lime juice, fish sauce, and chili flakes. Mix well until everything is combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more chili flakes for extra heat.
Step 6: Serve
Once the meatballs are grilled to perfection, remove them from the grill and arrange them on a serving platter. Drizzle the spicy sauce over the meatballs or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce. Garnish with extra cilantro or lime wedges for added flair.
Enjoy Your Thai-Style Grilled Meatballs!
These Thai-style grilled meatballs with spicy sauce are not only easy to make but are also bursting with savory flavors. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, party appetizers, or a unique twist on your regular BBQ menu. Enjoy with friends and family!
For those who prefer substitutions, feel free to use ground beef or turkey for the meatballs, and adjust the spice level by modifying the amount of chili flakes in the sauce. Your culinary creativity is the only limit!