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Mexican Donkey Balls

Mouthwatering Mexican Donkey Balls: A Spicy Delight at Home

Savor the irresistible flavor of Mexican Donkey Balls, a quick and spicy appetizer perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 meatballs
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Can substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
  • 1 medium Chopped Onion No substitutions recommended.
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Cilantro Omit if not preferred.
  • 1 medium Jalapeño Pepper Adjust to taste for spice level.
  • 2 cloves Garlic (Minced) Fresh garlic is best.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Irreplaceable spice.
  • 1 tablespoon Chili Powder Explore different blends.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Can swap for regular paprika.
  • to taste Salt and Pepper Adjust for flavor.
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Other cheeses can be used.
  • 1 cup Crushed Tortilla Chips Can replace with panko breadcrumbs.
  • 1 Egg (beaten) Use a flax egg for vegan option.
For the Sauce
  • 1 can Mexican-style Tomatoes with Green Chilies 15 oz, use diced tomatoes if needed.
For Serving
  • 2 pieces Fresh Lime Wedges Substitute with lemon if desired.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Skillet
  • baking sheet
  • parchment paper
  • Oven

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, fresh cilantro, diced jalapeño, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just incorporated.
  3. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and crushed tortilla chips into your meat mixture.
  4. Pour the beaten egg into the mixture and mix until fully integrated.
  5. Roll tablespoon-sized portions into uniform balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  6. Heat a splash of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the meatballs for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.
  7. Pour the can of Mexican-style tomatoes with green chilies around the meatballs in the skillet.
  8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  9. Remove from the oven and let the meatballs rest for a few minutes. Serve hot with fresh lime wedges.

Nutrition

Serving: 1meatballCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For optimal moistness and flavor, follow the expert tips provided in the article. Store leftovers properly for later enjoyment.

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