Authentic spanish meatballs recipe UK | A Taste of Spain at Home
Authentic spanish meatballs recipe UK
⭐Rating: 4.8/5 (based on home cooking experiences)
👨🍳 By Chef Omar Allibhoy
🕒 Prep Time: 20 minutes
🍳 Cook Time: 35 minutes
⏰ Total Time: 55 minutes
🥘 Servings: 4-6
📊 Difficulty Level: Medium
As a Spanish chef who has made London my home, I'm excited to share this authentic Spanish meatballs recipe UK home cooks will love. Known as 'albóndigas' in Spain, these succulent meatballs have been a staple in my family's kitchen for generations.
Every time I prepare this dish, it takes me back to the bustling tapas bars of Madrid, where the aroma of sizzling meatballs and rich tomato sauce fills the air. This Spanish meatballs recipe UK version has been carefully adapted to use ingredients readily available in British supermarkets while maintaining its authentic taste.
What Are spanish meatballs?
spanish meatballs are tender, well-seasoned meat parcels typically served in a flavorful tomato sauce. Unlike their Italian counterparts, Spanish meatballs recipe UK style incorporates unique spices like smoked paprika, giving them a distinctive Iberian character.
Ingredients for albondigas recipe UK
For the traditional spanish meatballs:
500g mixed pork and beef mince
2 slices of white bread, soaked in milk
1 large egg
3 garlic cloves, finely minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the sauce:
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
400g chopped tomatoes
1 bay leaf
100ml Spanish red wine
1 teaspoon sweet paprika
Preparation Method
Squeeze excess milk from bread and mix with meats
Combine all meatball ingredients gently
Form 20-24 small meatballs
Brown meatballs in olive oil
Prepare sauce and simmer meatballs until cooked through
Professional tips
Making the perfect Spanish meatballs recipe UK home cooks can master requires attention to detail:
Don't overmix the meat mixture
Chill the meatballs for 30 minutes before cooking
Use medium-high heat when browning
Simmer gently in the sauce for tender results
What to serve with
These Spanish meatballs pair beautifully with:
Crusty bread for sauce-soaking
Patatas bravas
Simple green salad
Spanish rice
This Spanish meatballs recipe UK version brings authentic Mediterranean flavors to your British kitchen. Whether served as tapas or a main course, these albóndigas will transport you to the warm, inviting atmosphere of a Spanish taberna.