Spicy Mexican Donkey Balls

Spicy Mexican Donkey Balls

Spicy Mexican Donkey Balls are a tantalizing treat that packs a flavorful punch, making them a must-try for any gathering. This dish combines the comforting essence of classic meatballs with zesty Mexican flair, ensuring you experience mouthwatering sensations in every bite. With crunchy exterior and savory interior, these delightful balls are perfect for sharing with friends and family as a snack or appetizer. In this step-by-step recipe, you’ll learn how to create these delicious treats quickly and easily, making them a fantastic choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Spicy Mexican Donkey Balls recipe is a culinary adventure that promises an explosion of flavors. One of the most appealing aspects is the straightforward preparation—perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. With only a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a delicious dish that is sure to impress. Not only are they crowd-pleasers, but they also make a fantastic meal prep option, as they can be made in bulk and enjoyed throughout the week.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef: The base of this dish, offering a rich, juicy flavor.
• 1 cup shredded cheese: Add some melty goodness that brings creaminess and depth.
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped: Brightens up the dish with its fresh, herbal aroma.
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped: Contributes a touch of mild onion flavor and crunch.
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Adds a warm, earthy note that enhances the overall flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder: Brings a hint of heat that makes these balls spicy and irresistible.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to elevate all the flavors.
• 1 cup breadcrumbs: Provides the structure and a lovely crispy texture when fried.
• 1 egg, beaten: Acts as a binder to hold everything together.
• Olive oil for frying: Ensures a perfectly golden brown exterior.

These simple, yet fragrant ingredients come together to create a deliciously satisfying dish.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, shredded cheese, cilantro, green onions, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Take a moment to thoroughly mix these ingredients, enjoying the aromatic blend of spices and herbs.

2. Mix in the breadcrumbs and beaten egg until the mixture is well combined. Your hands are the best tools for this job; make sure the ingredients are evenly distributed.

3. Shape the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball. Ensure they are compact to help them hold their shape while frying.

4. Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. You’ll want enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan for even frying.

5. Fry the balls until they are golden brown and cooked through, approximately 8-10 minutes. Turn them occasionally to achieve an even crisp on all sides.

6. Remove from the pan and drain on paper towels to soak up the excess oil. This step ensures your balls stay crispy.

7. Serve warm and enjoy! May I suggest pairing them with a zesty salsa or guacamole for an extra kick?

Tips & Tricks

• If you’re short on time, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge.
• Experiment with different cheeses such as pepper jack for an extra spicy flavor!
• For a gluten-free option, substitute breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

These Spicy Mexican Donkey Balls make a fantastic appetizer for any fiesta or casual get-together. Pair them with fresh guacamole, zesty salsa, or a cool creamy dipping sauce to balance the heat. They also pair beautifully with a refreshing beverage like a cold Mexican soda or homemade lemonade.

Nutritional Information

Spicy Mexican Donkey Balls offer a satisfying protein-packed snack. For a serving of four balls, the approximate nutritional values are:

• Calories: 300
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 2g

Remember, moderation is key to a balanced diet, especially when indulging in hearty snacks like these.

Storing Tips & Variations

If you find yourself with leftovers (unlikely, but it can happen!), store the Spicy Mexican Donkey Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They also freeze well—place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze them for an hour, then transfer them to a freezer bag. To reheat, simply bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

For variations, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Vegetarians can use quinoa or black beans mixed with the vegetables and pushed into the same spice profile for a meatless spin.

Conclusion

Don’t hesitate to delve into making Spicy Mexican Donkey Balls—they are easy, fun, and utterly delicious! Whether you’re bringing them to a potluck or serving them at a family gathering, you’re sure to delight everyone who tries them. Give this recipe a shot and share your experience; we’d love to hear how it turned out for you!

FAQs

1. Can I bake these instead of frying them?
   Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the formed balls on a greased baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

2. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
   Absolutely! Ground turkey makes a great alternative and can be equally delicious.

3. Are these balls spicy?
   The level of spice depends on the amount of chili powder you use. Feel free to adjust per your taste preference!

4. What dips pair well with them?
   Creamy avocado dip, salsa verde, or a tangy ranch dressing all complement these balls splendidly.

5. How can I adjust the recipe for larger gatherings?
   Simply double or triple the quantities of each ingredient! Just ensure you have enough frying space or shift to baking for convenience.

Now it’s your turn to get cooking! Enjoy the ride of flavors and don’t forget to share your culinary adventure with others.

Spicy Mexican Donkey Balls

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• Author: noah-reed
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Meat-Based

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Description

A tantalizing treat that combines classic meatball essence with zesty Mexican flavors, perfect for sharing!

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup shredded cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg, beaten
• Olive oil for frying

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, shredded cheese, cilantro, green onions, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
2. Mix in the breadcrumbs and beaten egg until well combined.
3. Shape the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
4. Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
5. Fry the balls until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 8-10 minutes.
6. Remove from the pan and drain on paper towels.
7. Serve warm with salsa or guacamole.

Notes

For a gluten-free option, substitute breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Can use ground turkey for a lighter meal.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 balls
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 60mg