Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

Tender juicy, sweet and spicy Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs simmered in a rich sauce make for an irresistible dish. Perfect for stress-free entertaining, these meatballs are an excellent choice for occasions like New Year’s Eve or Game Day. With their unique blend of flavors, they not only serve as a fantastic appetizer but also pair beautifully with rice and veggies for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With the slow cooker, you can set it and forget it, making it easy to enjoy quality time with loved ones.
• Bold Flavors: The combination of hoisin sauce, Gochujang, and blackberry preserves creates a fantastic balance of sweet and spicy that will please any palate.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these meatballs as appetizers or over rice for a hearty meal; they fit any occasion perfectly.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare them in advance; they store well and taste even better the next day.
• Crowd-Pleasing Portions: This recipe yields about 60 meatballs, making it ideal for gatherings and parties.

Tools and Preparation

Setting up your kitchen with the right tools can help streamline the cooking process for Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking while infusing flavors into the meatballs.
• Baking sheet: Essential for browning the meatballs before they go into the slow cooker, enhancing their texture.
• Mixing bowl: Provides adequate space to combine ingredients thoroughly without spills.

Ingredients

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 to make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Add eggs and gently whisk them together.
2. Combine all remaining meatball ingredients until well mixed.
3. Roll the mixture into meatballs of your desired size.

Step 3: Bake the Meatballs

Place the rolled meatballs onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 8 minutes or until they are lightly browned.

Step 4: Make the Korean Sauce

While the meatballs are baking:
1. In a medium bowl, add all Korean sauce ingredients.
2. Whisk together until fully combined.

Step 5: Combine in Slow Cooker

Line the bottom of your slow cooker with a thin layer of Korean sauce:
1. Add a layer of baked meatballs on top.
2. Drizzle some sauce over this layer.
3. Repeat layers until all meatballs are placed in the slow cooker followed by remaining sauce.

Step 6: Cook and Serve

Cover your slow cooker and cook on low heat for about 2 hours:
1. Gently stir after an hour of cooking.
2. Taste after cooking; if desired, stir in more Gochujang for extra sweetness or heat.
3. Keep warm until serving time.

Enjoy your flavorful Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs as either an appealing appetizer or a satisfying main dish!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs are a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. They’re perfect for parties, family dinners, or even as a quick snack throughout the week. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

As an Appetizer

• Serve these meatballs on toothpicks or skewers for easy snacking at parties or gatherings. They are sure to impress your guests!

Over Rice

• Place the meatballs over a bed of steamed rice. The sweet and spicy sauce pairs beautifully with the rice, making it a satisfying meal.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a fresh twist, serve the meatballs in crispy lettuce leaves. Add some shredded carrots and cilantro for added crunch and flavor.

With Vegetables

• Pair your meatballs with sautéed or steamed vegetables like broccoli, bok choy, or bell peppers. This adds color and nutrients to your meal.

On a Bun

• Create a delicious sandwich by placing meatballs on slider buns. Add some pickled vegetables for extra zing.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

Perfecting your Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs enhances their flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out amazing every time.

• Use lean ground beef: This will keep your meatballs tender without excess fat, ensuring they hold their shape during cooking.
• Don’t skip browning: Lightly baking the meatballs before adding them to the slow cooker helps seal in flavors and adds a nice texture.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your sauce before cooking. You can add more Gochujang for extra heat or sweetness as desired.
• Stir gently: When mixing ingredients, be gentle to avoid overworking the meat, which can lead to tough meatballs.
• Cook on low: Slow cooking allows flavors to meld beautifully. Avoid high heat for best results.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

Pairing side dishes with Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs can enhance your dining experience. Here’s a list of complementary sides that will round out your meal nicely.

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice
   A fragrant base that absorbs all the delicious sauce from the meatballs, making every bite flavorful.
2. Garlic Green Beans
   Sautéed green beans with garlic complement the savory notes of the meatballs while adding vibrant color.
3. Cucumber Salad
   A refreshing cucumber salad provides a cool contrast to the spicy meatballs and adds crunch.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes balances out the spicy flavors beautifully.
5. Kimchi
   This traditional side dish adds tanginess and probiotics, enhancing both flavor and health benefits.
6. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad with herbs and lemon offers a nutritious option that pairs well with Asian flavors.
7. Asian Slaw
   Crunchy cabbage slaw with sesame dressing adds texture and freshness alongside your savory meatballs.
8. Miso Soup
   A warm bowl of miso soup makes for a comforting pairing that complements the bold flavors of the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect the outcome. Here are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Not Prepping Ingredients Properly: Failing to measure and prepare your ingredients can lead to uneven flavors and textures. Make sure to gather and measure everything before starting.
• Skipping the Browning Step: While you can cook meatballs directly in the slow cooker, browning them first adds flavor. Take the time to bake or sear them for a richer taste.
• Overcrowding the Slow Cooker: Packing too many meatballs into the slow cooker can prevent even cooking. It’s better to cook in batches if necessary.
• Neglecting to Stir: Not stirring the meatballs halfway through cooking can result in uneven sauce distribution. Gently stir after an hour for consistent flavor.
• Ignoring Sauce Adjustments: Each palate is different; not tasting and adjusting the sauce could mean missing out on that perfect sweet heat balance. Always taste before serving!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store meatballs in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

• Place cooled meatballs in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place meatballs in a baking dish, covering with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place meatballs on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals, checking frequently until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat meatballs in a skillet over medium heat, adding some extra sauce if desired. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative! It will provide a lighter option while still tasting delicious.

How do I make these meatballs spicier?

To increase the spice level, add more Gochujang or include chopped fresh chili peppers into the mixture before cooking.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and freeze them ahead of time for an easy meal later on.

What should I serve with Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs?

They pair well with rice, steamed vegetables, or even as a filling for lettuce wraps!

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

These Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs are not only tender and flavorful but also incredibly versatile. Perfect as an appetizer or paired with rice and veggies, they cater to various tastes and occasions. Feel free to customize the sauce’s sweetness or spice level according to your preference!