Porcupine meatballs

Porcupine meatballs

Porcupine Meatballs are a type of meatball dish that is popular in the United States and other parts of the world. The dish gets its name from the rice that is mixed into the meatballs, which pokes out as they cook, resembling the quills of a porcupine.

History

The exact origins of Porcupine Meatballs are unclear, but they are believed to have been created during the Great Depression in the United States, when families had to stretch their food supplies. The addition of rice to the meatballs was a way to make the meat go further.

Preparation

Porcupine Meatballs are made by combining ground beef or pork with uncooked rice, onions, and seasonings. This mixture is then formed into meatballs, which are browned in a skillet before being simmered in a tomato-based sauce. The rice absorbs the sauce as it cooks, causing it to puff up and stick out of the meatballs.

Variations

There are many variations of Porcupine Meatballs. Some recipes call for the addition of vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, while others use different types of meat, such as turkey or venison. The sauce can also be varied, with some recipes using a cream-based sauce instead of tomato.

In Popular Culture

Porcupine Meatballs have been featured in numerous cookbooks and cooking shows, and they are a popular dish for potlucks and family gatherings.

See Also

• Meatball
• Rice
• Great Depression