Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs are a delightful fusion of flavors that everyone will crave! These tender, juicy meatballs are simmered in a tantalizing sweet and spicy sauce, making them perfect for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a New Year’s Eve party or gearing up for Game Day, these versatile meatballs can be served as an appetizer or paired with rice and veggies for a satisfying meal. Enjoy the stress-free preparation that make this dish a standout!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just mix, roll, and let your slow cooker do the work.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet blackberry preserves and spicy Gochujang creates an irresistible sauce.
• Party-Ready: Perfect for feeding a crowd, these meatballs are always a hit at parties and events.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve as appetizers or pair with rice and vegetables for a complete meal.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and simply heat up before serving, making entertaining easy.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures smooth preparation and cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Foil
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the star of the show! It allows you to cook your meatballs low and slow, resulting in tender, flavorful bites.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without mess.
• Baking sheet: A must-have for browning the meatballs before they go into the slow cooker.

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Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make your tasty Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs:

For the Meatballs

• 2 pounds lean ground beef
• 2 eggs
• 22 saltine crackers, crushed (approx. 1 cup)
• 1/3 cup dry minced onion
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1 tsp EACH salt, garlic powder, onion powder, ginger powder
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

For the Korean Sauce

• 1 10 oz. jar seedless blackberry preserves (1 cup)
• 1/2 cup hoisin sauce
• 3 tablespoons Gochujang
• 1/4 cup red apple vinegar
• 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
• 1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/2 tsp EACH ginger powder, garlic powder, onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

How to Make Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 450 degrees F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl:
1. Add eggs and gently whisk until combined.
2. Add all remaining meatball ingredients and mix until well combined.
3. Roll the mixture into your desired meatball size.

Step 3: Bake the Meatballs

Place meatballs onto the prepared baking sheet:
– Bake for about 8 minutes or until lightly browned.

Step 4: Make the Korean Sauce

In a medium bowl:
– Add all of the Korean sauce ingredients.
– Whisk together until fully combined.

Step 5: Layer in the Slow Cooker

Line the bottom of your slow cooker with a thin layer of Korean sauce:
– Add a layer of baked meatballs.
– Drizzle with more sauce.
– Repeat layering with remaining meatballs and sauce.

Step 6: Cook Low and Slow

Cover your slow cooker:
– Cook on low heat for about 2 hours.
– Gently stir after one hour to ensure even cooking.

When done, taste your meatballs and stir in additional Gochujang if desired for extra heat. Keep warm until ready to serve!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

Serving Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs can be fun and versatile. These meatballs are not only great as a main dish but also work wonderfully as appetizers. Here are some creative ways to serve them at your next gathering or meal.

As a Main Course

• Serve over steamed rice for a hearty meal.
• Pair with quinoa for a protein-packed option.
• Include mixed veggies on the side to add color and nutrition.

As an Appetizer

• Provide toothpicks for easy serving during parties.
• Offer a dipping sauce made from the Korean sauce for extra flavor.
• Present in small cups for portion control and convenience.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Use crisp lettuce leaves to wrap the meatballs for a fresh twist.
• Add sliced cucumbers and carrots for crunch.
• Drizzle with extra hoisin sauce to enhance flavor.

With Noodles

• Toss meatballs with cooked rice noodles for an Asian-inspired dish.
• Garnish with chopped cilantro and green onions.
• Serve in bowls with extra sauce on top.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

To ensure your Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs turn out delicious every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices enhance the overall flavor of the meatballs.
• Don’t overcrowd the slow cooker: Give meatballs enough space to cook evenly and absorb the sauce.
• Adjust spice levels: Add more Gochujang if you prefer additional heat; taste before serving.
• Let them rest: Allow the meatballs to sit after cooking; this lets flavors meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with sauces: Try different fruit preserves or vinegars for unique flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement their flavors well.

1. Steamed Broccoli: A simple yet nutritious side that balances out the rich flavors of the meatballs.
2. Fried Rice: Easy to make, it adds texture and absorbs the sauce wonderfully.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy option that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the meatballs.
4. Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and light, this salad offers a cool balance to spicy dishes.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with Korean flavors.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Adds a smoky sweetness that enhances the overall meal experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your experience making Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Baking Step: Not baking the meatballs before slow cooking can lead to a mushy texture. Baking helps seal in flavor and improves consistency.

• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Eyeballing ingredients may disrupt the balance of flavors. Use measuring cups and spoons for precise amounts, especially for sauces and spices.

• Overcrowding the Slow Cooker: Filling the slow cooker too full can prevent even cooking. Layer meatballs with sauce and leave space for heat circulation.

• Ignoring Cooking Times: Deviating from suggested cooking times can result in undercooked or overcooked meatballs. Set timers and check doneness as recommended.

• Forgetting to Stir Occasionally: If you don’t stir during cooking, some meatballs might stick to the bottom. Gently stir after an hour to ensure even coating and heating.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Allow them to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

• Place cooled meatballs in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish on medium power, stirring halfway, until warm (about 2-3 minutes).
• Stovetop: Gently simmer in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed, until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs?

Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs are tender beef meatballs cooked in a sweet and spicy sauce made from ingredients like hoisin sauce and Gochujang, perfect for appetizers or meals.

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative that works well in this recipe while still providing flavor and moisture.

How do I make these meatballs gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs, substitute saltine crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

How spicy are Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs?

The spice level can be adjusted by varying the amount of Gochujang used. For milder meatballs, start with less and add more according to taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs offer a delightful mix of flavors that are both sweet and spicy. Their versatility makes them great as appetizers or served with rice and veggies for dinner. Customize them by adding different vegetables or adjusting spice levels based on your taste!