Juicy Korean-Style BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Sauce

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Juicy Korean-Style BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Sauce

Introduction

Juicy, savory, and slightly sweet, these Korean-Style BBQ Meatballs deliver an irresistible explosion of flavors. Marrying classic Korean BBQ elements with the comfort of tender meatballs, this recipe is perfect for a quick dinner, festive gatherings, or even meal prepping. A zesty Spicy Mayo Sauce adds a creamy, fiery kick that perfectly balances the savory richness of the meatballs.

Origin and Cultural Significance

Korean BBQ (known as Gogi-Gui) is a beloved culinary tradition where diners grill seasoned meats at the table, celebrating both food and community. The sweet-savory profile—marked by soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic—has become iconic worldwide. These meatballs adapt the essence of Korean BBQ into a convenient, crowd-pleasing format, embodying Korean flavors while offering Western-style portability and versatility.

Ingredients and Quantities

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground beef or pork
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp minced garlic
  • 1 tbsp grated ginger
  • 2 tbsp green onions, chopped
  • 1 large egg
  • ¼ cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) or red pepper flakes (optional)
  • ½ tsp black pepper

For the Spicy Mayo Sauce:

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp honey
  • 1 tsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp lime juice (optional)

Optional Additions

  • Sesame seeds for garnish
  • Thinly sliced cucumber for a fresh side
  • Pickled radish for a traditional Korean touch
  • Shredded carrots or cabbage for added crunch
  • Sticky rice to make a complete meal
  • Korean BBQ sauce glaze brushed on meatballs during baking for extra flavor

Tips for Success

  • Don’t overmix the meatball mixture; it can make the meatballs tough.
  • Uniform size ensures even cooking—use a cookie scoop if available.
  • Chill the meatballs for 15 minutes before baking for better shape retention.
  • Adjust spice level by controlling the amount of sriracha and gochugaru.
  • Use parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
  • Broil for 1-2 minutes at the end if you want an extra caramelized exterior.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatballs:

In a large bowl, combine ground beef or pork, soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, green onions, egg, breadcrumbs, gochugaru, and black pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly until evenly blended.

2. Shape the Meatballs:

Scoop and roll the mixture into small, uniform balls (about 1 ½ inches in diameter). Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.

3. Cook the Meatballs:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked and golden brown. Optionally, broil for 1-2 minutes for extra color.

4. Make the Spicy Mayo Sauce:

While the meatballs bake, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, soy sauce, and lime juice in a small bowl. Taste and adjust the spice and tang as preferred.

5. Serve:

Arrange meatballs on a serving platter. Drizzle with spicy mayo or serve the sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with extra green onions, sesame seeds, or fresh vegetables.

Description

Each meatball bursts with a balance of savory, sweet, and umami-rich flavors. The slight heat from gochugaru and the richness of sesame oil create layers of depth. The spicy mayo, with its creamy texture and vibrant kick, elevates the dish from comforting to addictive. Whether eaten alone, with rice, or tucked into lettuce wraps, these meatballs are an absolute flavor powerhouse.

Nutritional Information** (Approximate per serving, 4 meatballs + 2 tbsp sauce)

  • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Sugars: 3g
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Sodium: 580mg
  • Fiber: 0.5g

(Note: Nutritional values will vary based on ingredients and portion sizes.)

Conclusion

Juicy Korean-Style BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Sauce is a versatile and crowd-pleasing recipe that brings the magic of Korean flavors into your kitchen with ease. Whether you’re hosting a party, prepping for weekday lunches, or just craving something boldly flavorful, this dish promises satisfaction in every bite.

Recommendation

Pair these meatballs with fluffy white rice, cucumber salad, or kimchi for a full Korean-inspired meal. They also make excellent appetizers for gatherings or quick weekday snacks. For a lighter option, serve them in lettuce cups with extra spicy mayo drizzle.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

While these meatballs are wonderfully flavorful and rich, they can be tweaked for a healthier profile. Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef or pork, opt for low-fat mayonnaise in the sauce, and bake rather than fry. Serve with a variety of fresh, crunchy vegetables to balance the richness and add fiber, ensuring you can indulge guilt-free.


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