Save Indulge in these Honey Garlic Turkey Meatball Bowls, a perfect harmony of juicy meatballs and a sweet, savory glaze. This American-Asian Fusion dish brings together lean ground turkey with a vibrant honey-garlic sauce, served alongside fluffy rice and tender broccoli for a wholesome and flavorful weeknight meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Save The secret to this dish lies in the balance of the honey-garlic glaze, which perfectly coats the tender turkey meatballs. By using fresh garlic and green onions within the meat mixture, every bite is infused with depth, ensuring the meal is as aromatic as it is delicious.
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 cooking)
- 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, for garnish)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Prepare the rice according to package instructions and set aside.
- Step 2
- 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 3
- In a large bowl, mix ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper until just combined.
- Step 4
- Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch (4 cm) meatballs (about 18–20 meatballs).
- Step 5
- 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 6
- In the same skillet, combine honey, soy sauce, garlic, and rice vinegar. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Step 7
- 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 8
- Return the meatballs to the skillet and toss to coat them evenly in the glaze.
- Step 9
- 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
To ensure even cooking, use a large nonstick skillet. If you prefer to bake the meatballs, you can place them on a baking sheet and cook them in the oven before tossing them in the glaze. Using a pair of tongs or a spatula will help you turn the meatballs gently without breaking them.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This recipe is highly versatile; feel free to substitute ground chicken for the turkey if desired. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari instead of soy sauce. You can also boost the nutrient profile by adding steamed snap peas, carrots, or edamame to the bowls.
Serviervorschläge
For a complete meal experience, this dish pairs exceptionally well with a crisp Riesling or a light wheat beer, which complements the sweet and savory notes of the honey garlic sauce. Serve immediately while the glaze is warm and glossy.
Save Whether you are prepping for the week ahead or sitting down for a family dinner, these Honey Garlic Turkey Meatball Bowls offer a satisfying, wholesome, and delicious solution that never feels like a compromise on flavor.
Kitchen Help
- → Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Ground chicken works perfectly as a substitute. The cooking time remains the same, and the meatballs will stay equally juicy in the honey garlic glaze.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the meatballs in the glaze over low heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.
- → Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Shape the meatballs up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate uncooked. Alternatively, fully cook and glaze them, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- → What other vegetables work well in these bowls?
Steamed snap peas, shredded carrots, edamame, or bell peppers complement the honey garlic flavors. Blanch or steam them just until tender-crisp for the best texture.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari instead of soy sauce to make this gluten-free. All other ingredients naturally fit dietary restrictions.