Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip: A Flavor-Packed Beginner-Friendly Recipe
Why make this recipe
Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip is a fantastic way to enjoy a blend of intense flavors in bite-sized pieces. These meatballs are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making them perfect for beginners. Ideal for entertaining or a family meal, this recipe combines savory and spicy elements that are sure to please any palate. Plus, with the added spicy mayo dip, these meatballs transform into a standout dish for gatherings or a casual night in.
How to make Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
Making Korean BBQ Meatballs is a straightforward process that guarantees full flavor. The ingredients meld beautifully, creating tender, juicy meatballs that are packed with umami.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or ground chicken
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon gochujang
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (to thicken)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon gochujang
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Chopped green onions (for garnish)
Directions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or chicken), panko breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, gochujang, brown sugar, sesame oil, salt, black pepper, and chopped green onions.
- Gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatballs dense.
- Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Place the meatballs on a plate or baking sheet while you heat the cooking surface.
- You can cook the meatballs in three different ways, depending on your preference: bake them in the oven, pan-fry them on the stove, or grill them for a smoky flavor.
How to serve Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
These meatballs can be served as an appetizer or main dish. Place them on a serving platter, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a vibrant presentation. Accompany the meatballs with a small bowl of spicy mayo dip for drizzling or dipping. This dish pairs well with a side of steamed rice or a simple salad.
How to store Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
To store leftover meatballs, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze them for longer storage—thaw in the refrigerator before reheating. The spicy mayo dip should also be stored in an airtight container and can last in the refrigerator for about a week.
Tips to make Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
- Avoid overmixing the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
- For extra flavor, marinate the meatball mixture in the fridge for an hour before cooking.
- Adjust the spiciness of the mayo dip by varying the amount of gochujang according to your preference.
Variation
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding chopped vegetables, such as bell peppers or carrots, into the meatball mixture for added nutrition. You can also substitute ground beef or chicken with ground turkey or tofu for a different flavor profile and dietary preference.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different meat for the meatballs?
A: Yes! Ground turkey, pork, or even plant-based alternatives work well in this recipe. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
Q: Can I make the spicy mayo dip ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! The dip can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
Q: What is gochujang, and where can I find it?
A: Gochujang is a Korean chili paste that provides a unique sweet and spicy flavor. It can be found in Asian grocery stores or the international aisle of most supermarkets.
Enjoy creating these flavorful Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip, a dish sure to impress anyone who takes a bite!
Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef or ground chicken You can substitute with ground turkey or tofu.
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg Bind the mixture together.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Adds flavor.
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste) Adjust spiciness to preference.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 green onions finely chopped For flavor.
For the Spicy Mayo Dip
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon gochujang
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
For Garnish
- to taste sesame seeds For garnish.
- to taste chopped green onions For garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or chicken), panko breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, gochujang, brown sugar, sesame oil, salt, black pepper, and chopped green onions.
- Gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep meatballs tender.
- Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Place the meatballs on a plate or baking sheet while you heat the cooking surface.
Cooking
- You can cook the meatballs by baking in the oven, pan-frying on the stove, or grilling for a smoky flavor.
Serving
- Serve the meatballs on a platter, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
- Accompany with spicy mayo dip for drizzling or dipping, and consider serving with a side of steamed rice or a simple salad.
