Save Experience the perfect blend of sweet and savory with these Honey Garlic Turkey Meatball Bowls. This dish transforms simple ground turkey into juicy, flavor-packed morsels coated in a glossy, aromatic glaze. Served over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice with tender-crisp broccoli, it’s a wholesome meal that brings American-Asian fusion right to your dinner table in just 45 minutes.
Save Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a nutritious lunch option, these bowls deliver on both taste and texture. The combination of minced garlic, fresh green onions, and sesame oil ensures every bite is fragrant and satisfying.
Ingredients
- For the Meatballs: 1 lb (450 g) ground turkey, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1 large egg, 2 green onions (finely chopped), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1 tbsp sesame oil (or olive oil).
- For the Honey Garlic Glaze: 1/3 cup honey, 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium recommended), 3 cloves garlic (minced), 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp cornstarch, 1/4 cup water.
- For the Bowls: 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice, 3 cups broccoli florets, 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional garnish), 2 green onions (thinly sliced garnish).
Instructions
- Step 1: Rice and Broccoli Prep
- Prepare the rice according to package instructions and set aside. Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add broccoli florets and blanch for 2–3 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: Form Meatballs
- In a large bowl, mix ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper until just combined. Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch (4 cm) meatballs (about 18–20 meatballs).
- Step 3: Sear Meatballs
- Heat sesame oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through (about 8–10 minutes). Remove meatballs and set aside.
- Step 4: Prepare Glaze
- In the same skillet, combine honey, soy sauce, garlic, and rice vinegar. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water until smooth. Stir into the skillet and cook until the sauce thickens (1–2 minutes).
- Step 5: Assemble and Serve
- Return the meatballs to the skillet and toss to coat them evenly in the glaze. Assemble bowls with a base of rice, add broccoli, and top with glazed meatballs. Drizzle any extra glaze over the top. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best texture, avoid overmixing the ground turkey, which can make the meatballs tough. If you prefer a hands-off approach, you can bake the meatballs on a baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes instead of pan-frying.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This recipe is highly versatile; you can substitute ground chicken for turkey if desired. For a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari instead of soy sauce.
Serviervorschläge
Add extra vitamins by including steamed snap peas, carrots, or edamame in your bowl. This meal pairs wonderfully with a crisp Riesling or a light wheat beer to complement the sweet and savory notes.
Save These Honey Garlic Turkey Meatball Bowls are a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious, restaurant-style dinner at home. With the perfect balance of lean protein and fresh vegetables, it is a recipe you will find yourself returning to again and again.
Kitchen Q&A
- → Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, ground chicken works perfectly as a substitute. The texture and flavor profile remain similar, making it an easy swap if you prefer chicken or have it on hand.
- → How do I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and replace the soy sauce with tamari. The rest of the ingredients naturally fit a gluten-free diet. Always check labels on packaged ingredients to confirm.
- → Can I bake the meatballs instead of pan-frying?
Absolutely. Arrange shaped meatballs on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes, turning halfway through. Finish by tossing them in the prepared glaze.
- → How long do leftovers keep?
Store components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat meatballs and broccoli gently, adding a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.
- → What other vegetables work well in these bowls?
Try steamed snap peas, shredded carrots, bell peppers, or edamame. You can also add sautéed bok choy or stir-fried cabbage for extra crunch and nutrition.