Smoked Blackberry Whisky Jalapeño BBQ Meatballs

Smoked Blackberry Whisky Jalapeño BBQ Meatballs

Smoked Blackberry Whisky Jalapeño BBQ Meatballs: the appetizer you NEED for your next party!

 

Things to know:

What are meatballs?

A meatball is a ball of ground meat mixed with other ingredients like breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings, which can be made from beef, pork, chicken, or lamb, and is incredibly versatile, served in sauces with pasta, in sandwiches, soups, or as appetizers. Key to a tender meatball is not overworking the mixture and using a binder like a “panade” (milk-soaked bread) for moisture. Popular variations include Italian-American, Swedish, and Mexican-style meatballs, often served with tomato sauce, cream sauce, or in chili.

What is the origin of meatballs?

Meatballs did not originate in a single place; they developed independently across multiple ancient cultures. The earliest known precursors are Middle Eastern kofta from ancient Persia and seasoned minced meat dishes from ancient Rome, which later evolved into regional variations worldwide.

What is the secret to the best meatballs?

The secret to restaurant-quality, tender, and juicy meatballs comes down to three main rules: never overmix the meat, always use a panade (a mixture of starch and liquid), and season generously.

What is the history of Crown Royal?

Crown Royal was created in 1939 by a Canadian spirits entrepreneur to honor King George VI and Queen Elizabeth’s historic first visit to Canada. After meticulously testing over 600 blends, he selected a smooth mix of 50 whiskies, packaged it in a cut-glass decanter, and wrapped it in a now-iconic purple velvet bag.

Why is Crown Royal not considered bourbon?

Crown Royal is not bourbon because it is legally classified as a Canadian Whisky. To be considered authentic bourbon, American law strictly requires the spirit to be made in the United States, made from a mash of at least 51% corn, and aged in new, charred oak barrels.

Ingredients:

 

Meatballs

1 lb ground beef

1 lb ground pork

1/2 cup breadcrumbs  

1 egg

1/4 cup blackberry whisky (we used Crown Royal Blackberry whisky)

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 T finely chopped green onion

1 T Spiceology Blackberry Balsamic blend 

1 t smoked paprika  

1 t salt  

1 t black pepper  

 

Blackberry Jalapeño BBQ Glaze

1 cup BBQ sauce  

1/2 cup blackberry jam

2 jalapeños, sliced

1/4 cup blackberry whisky (we used Crown Royal Blackberry whisky)

1 T Spiceology Blackberry Balsamic blend 

1 T apple cider vinegar  

1 T honey  

1 t Worcestershire sauce  

1/2 t chili flakes  

 

1. In a large bowl all of the meatball ingredients.  Roll the mixture into 2 oz meatballs.

2. Fire up your smoker to 225F.  Place the meatballs on a wire rack and chuck them into the smoker for 90 minutes or until the reach an internal temperature of 165F.

3. While the meatballs are smoking, in a skillet, combine all of the glaze ingredients.  Simmer 5 minutes until glossy.

4. Add cooked meatballs to the glaze and toss until fully coated.

5. Serve hot with extra jalapeños and chopped green onion.  ENJOY!

 

Equipment used:

Yoder YS640S Smoker

Starfrit The Rock Electric Multi Pot – 4.5L

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