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Lion’s Head Meatballs

Savory Lion’s Head Meatballs Perfect for Family Feasts

Experience the delightful taste of Lion’s Head Meatballs, a savory dish symbolizing togetherness in Chinese culture.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 meatballs
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 300 g Minced Pork Opt for a 70% meat to 30% fat ratio for tender and juicy meatballs.
  • 1/2 cup Lotus Root Chopped; can swap with water chestnuts if needed.
  • 1 large Egg Helps bind the meat together for the perfect texture.
  • 1 tbsp Soy Sauce Light; boosts umami flavor.
  • 2 tbsp Soy Sauce For braising; use tamari for a gluten-free option.
  • 1 tbsp Oyster Sauce Provides rich depth.
  • 1 tbsp Oyster Sauce For braising; substitute with mushroom sauce for a vegetarian version.
  • 1/8 tsp Salt Essential seasoning to elevate the other flavors.
  • 1/8 tsp Salt For braising.
  • 1 tbsp Cornstarch Helps thicken your sauce while giving the meatballs a smooth texture.
  • 1/2 tbsp Cornstarch For sauce thickening.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil Ideal for sautéing aromatics.
  • 2 slices Ginger Fresh ginger infuses warmth.
  • 1 thumb Ginger
  • 2 Scallions Adds refreshing notes.
  • 1 whole Star Anise Enhances the flavor beautifully.
  • 1.5 tbsp Rock Sugar Balances the savory ingredients.
For Serving
  • Bok Choy Brings nutrition and color; interchange with napa cabbage.

Equipment

  • large bowl
  • Pot
  • skillet
  • platter

Method
 

Steps
  1. Prepare Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine minced pork, light soy sauce, salt, oyster sauce, black pepper, chopped lotus root, and egg. Mix until the mixture is paste-like and well combined.
  2. Add Cornstarch: Sprinkle the cornstarch into the meat mixture and mix thoroughly until it becomes sticky and light, ensuring the meatballs will hold their shape.
  3. Form Meatballs: Using a tablespoon, scoop out the mixture and roll it into 5 cm balls. Carefully place them on a platter as you form them.
  4. Blanch Meatballs: Bring a pot of water to a boil and gently lower the meatballs into the boiling water. Simmer them for 10 minutes, then remove and set aside; reserve the cooking water for the sauce.
  5. Prepare Aromatics: In a large skillet, sauté scallions, ginger, and star anise in vegetable oil over medium heat until fragrant and lightly golden.
  6. Braise Meatballs: Pour the reserved water into the skillet along with soy sauces, salt, oyster sauce, black pepper, and rock sugar. Bring to a boil, then gently add the meatballs. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken beautifully.
  7. Blanch Bok Choy: In the same pot used earlier, blanch the bok choy briefly until vibrant in color. This should only take about 1-2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  8. Combine and Serve: Transfer the cooked meatballs to a serving dish, drizzling them generously with the reduced sauce. Serve alongside the bok choy for a colorful presentation.

Nutrition

Serving: 1meatballCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 20gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 1gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Optional: Garnish with additional chopped scallions for a fresh finish. Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

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