Albóndigas en Salsa
Spanish Meatballs in Almond-Saffron Sauce
Tender, flavorful Spanish meatballs simmered in a rich, aromatic sauce made with ground almonds and a hint of saffron. A classic tapas dish perfect for sharing.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Ground beef and pork mixture(A 50/50 mix is traditional and provides great flavor and texture.)
- 2 slices Day-old bread(Crusts removed, torn into small pieces.)
- 1 Large egg(Lightly beaten.)
- 50 g Blanched slivered or whole almonds(Blanched almonds are easier to grind into a smooth paste.)
- 1 generous pinch Saffron threads(Toasted lightly and steeped in a tablespoon of warm water for 10 minutes before use.)
- 100 ml Dry white wine(Such as a Spanish Albariño or Verdejo.)
- 1 medium Yellow onion(Finely chopped.)
- 2 Garlic cloves(Minced.)
- 400 ml Chicken or vegetable broth(Low sodium preferred.)
- 3 tbsp Olive oil(Divided use.)
- 1 tbsp All-purpose flour(For dusting the meatballs.)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley(Chopped, for garnish (optional).)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the meatball mixture: Soak the torn bread in a small bowl of water for about 5 minutes until softened. Squeeze out excess water thoroughly. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, soaked bread, lightly beaten egg, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined; avoid overmixing, which can make the meatballs tough. Roll the mixture into small, uniform balls, about 1.5 inches (4 cm) in diameter. Lightly dust the formed meatballs with flour.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 2
Brown the meatballs: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat (around 190°C / 375°F). Carefully add the floured meatballs in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Brown them on all sides until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per batch. This step adds crucial flavor and color. Remove the browned meatballs from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 3
Prepare the sauce base: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet over medium heat (around 175°C / 350°F). Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Pour in the white wine and scrape the bottom of the pan to loosen any browned bits (deglazing). Let the wine simmer and reduce by half, about 2-3 minutes.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 4
Finish the sauce and simmer: In a small bowl or using a mortar and pestle, grind the almonds with the steeped saffron (including the soaking liquid) to form a paste. Add this almond-saffron paste to the skillet with the onions and wine. Stir well to combine. Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Combine and cook: Carefully return the browned meatballs to the simmering sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the meatballs simmer gently in the sauce for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. The meatballs should be firm to the touch and the internal temperature should reach 71°C (160°F). Avoid boiling, as this can toughen the meatballs.
⏱️ 20 minutes - 6
Serve: Ladle the Albóndigas en Salsa into shallow bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot as a tapa or as a main course with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
⏱️ 2 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a smoother almond paste, you can briefly toast the almonds before grinding.
- ✓The sauce should have a creamy consistency; if it's too thick, add a splash more broth. If too thin, simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
- ✓Don't overwork the meatball mixture; gentle handling ensures tender results.
- ✓Saffron is key for the characteristic golden hue and delicate aroma; use good quality threads.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a tablespoon of tomato paste to the onion sauté for a richer, slightly different flavor profile.
- Stir in a handful of fresh or frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of simmering for added color and sweetness.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic.