Bison Meatballs With Orange Plum Sauce

Ingredients:

For the Bison Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground kosher bison
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (kosher-approved)
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional for a sweet-spicy flavor)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for frying)

For the Orange Plum Sauce:

  • 1 cup plum preserves (or fresh plums, pitted and mashed)
  • 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 1 tbsp honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce (kosher)
  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger (optional for a zesty kick)
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
  • 1 tsp orange zest
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

For the Meatballs:

  1. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground bison, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, and cinnamon. Mix until well combined but do not overwork the meat.
  2. Form Meatballs: Roll the mixture into small, evenly sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
  3. Cook Meatballs: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and cook until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes total. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

For the Orange Plum Sauce:

  1. Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet, add the garlic and ginger (if using) and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Add Ingredients: Stir in the plum preserves, orange juice, soy sauce, honey, orange zest, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  3. Combine Meatballs and Sauce: Add the meatballs back into the skillet with the sauce and toss to coat them evenly. Let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for another 5-10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve the meatballs over rice or couscous for a hearty meal.
  • Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a bright finish.

Enjoy these flavorful bison meatballs with the sweet and tangy orange plum sauce!