RECIPES
Holiday appetizers perfect for entertaining
Presents may get much of the glory during the holiday season , but there is much to be said about the foods found throughout this time of year as well . During the holiday season , people frequently find that dinner invites , cocktail parties , office happy hour gatherings , and other opportunities for socialization are easy to come by . At the heart of these events are foods and beverages .
Whether one is hosting a holiday soiree or plans to bring something to a potluck party , it ’ s helpful to have a list of fail-proof recipes at the ready . Tasting menus , bite-sized treats and finger foods are always a hit at holiday functions — and this recipe for “ Mini Merry Meatballs ,” courtesy of the Cattlemen ’ s Beef Board and National Cattlemen ’ s Beef Association , is sure to please . Paired with a cranberry barbecue sauce , these savory appetizers are bursting with flavor and holiday appeal .
Mini Merry Meatballs
Servings : 24
1 / 2 pound ground beef brisket 1 / 4 pound ground beef ribeye steak boneless 1 / 4 pound ground beef ( 80 percent lean ) 1 cup seasoned stuffing mix 1 egg , beaten 3 tablespoons water 1 teaspoon minced garlic 1 / 4 teaspoon salt 1 / 8 teaspoon pepper
Cranberry Barbecue Sauce : 2 teaspoons vegetable oil 1 / 2 cup chopped white onion 1 tablespoon minced garlic 2½ cups fresh cranberries 1 / 2 cup orange juice 1 / 2 cup water 1 / 3 cup ketchup 1 / 4 cup light brown sugar 2 tablespoons cider vinegar 2 tablespoons molasses 1 / 2 teaspoon ground red pepper
Salt
1 . Preheat oven to 400 F . Combine brisket , ribeye , ground beef , stuffing mix , egg , water , garlic , salt , and pepper in a large bowl , mixing lightly but thoroughly . Shape into 24 1½inch meatballs . Place on a rack in a broiler pan that has been sprayed with cooking spray . Bake for 13 to 15 minutes until the internal temperature reads 160 F .
2 . Meanwhile , prepare the Cranberry Barbecue Sauce . Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat . Add onions and garlic ; cook and stir
2 to 3 minutes , or until tender , but not brown . Add remaining ingredients , stirring to combine . Bring to a boil ; reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes , or until cranberries burst and the mixture has been reduced to a thick consistency , stirring occasionally . Remove from heat ; cool slightly . Transfer mixture to blender container . Cover , allowing steam to escape . Process until smooth . Season with salt , as desired .
3 . Serve meatballs with barbecue sauce . n
82 Winter 2023 Thomasville Scene