Hoisin Glazed Asian Turkey Meatballs Recipe
These Hoisin Glazed Asian Turkey Meatballs are a flavorful and healthy twist on classic meatballs, combining lean ground turkey with aromatic garlic, ginger, and scallions. Glazed in a tangy and sweet hoisin lime sauce, they offer a delightful balance of savory and citrus notes. Perfect as an appetizer or main dish, these meatballs are quick to prepare and can be served with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and fresh herbs for added texture and freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (approximately 16-20 meatballs)
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
Meatballs
- 1 ½ pounds lean ground turkey (93% lean)
- ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (2 teaspoons)
- ⅓ cup chopped scallions
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger, or 1 ½ teaspoons dried ground ginger
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Glaze
- ¼ cup hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger, or ¾ teaspoon dried ground ginger
For Serving (Optional)
- 2 tablespoons Panko breadcrumbs, gluten-free if needed
- 2 teaspoons sesame seeds
- Chopped cilantro and scallions
Instructions
- Prepare Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the lean ground turkey, Panko breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped scallions, egg, grated ginger, toasted sesame oil, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly combined, taking care not to overwork the meat to maintain tenderness.
- Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 to 1 ½ inches in diameter, placing them on a clean plate or baking sheet as you go.
- Cook Meatballs: Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat with a small amount of oil if needed. Add the meatballs in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden brown and the meatballs are cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
- Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the hoisin sauce, fresh lime juice, low-sodium soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, and grated fresh ginger until well combined.
- Glaze Meatballs: Once the meatballs are cooked, reduce the heat to low and pour the glaze over them in the skillet. Gently toss the meatballs to coat them evenly with the glaze, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and adhere.
- Serve: Transfer the glazed meatballs to a serving plate. If desired, sprinkle with toasted Panko breadcrumbs, sesame seeds, and chopped cilantro and scallions for garnish. Serve warm with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- Using lean ground turkey keeps the meatballs healthy and tender.
- Panko breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs and add a light texture.
- Be careful not to overmix the meat mixture to avoid dense meatballs.
- Gluten-free Panko breadcrumbs can be used if gluten sensitivity is a concern.
- To toast Panko breadcrumbs, dry fry them in a skillet over medium heat until golden and crispy.
- Fresh ginger provides more vibrant flavor, but dried ginger works well in a pinch.
- Ensure meatballs reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.