Lion's Head Meatballs
Lion's Head Meatballs are a traditional Chinese dish featuring large, juicy pork meatballs paired with flavorful bok choy. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Prep
15 minutes
Cook
30 minutes
Level
Medium
Serves
4
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Illustrated cooking guide
Step-by-step visual method
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Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, combine 1 pound ground pork, 1/4 cup water, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, chopped green onions, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1 egg, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- 2
Shape the mixture into 6 large meatballs, about 2 inches in diameter.
- 3
In a large skillet, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until browned on all sides.
- 4
Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover with a lid and cook for 25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the meatballs to cook through.
- 5
After 25 minutes, gently add 2 cups of chopped bok choy to the skillet, cover again, and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes until the bok choy wilts.
- 6
Taste the broth and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
Tips
For extra flavor, refrigerate the meatball mixture for 30 minutes before shaping.
You can add chopped mushrooms or water chestnuts to the meatball mixture for added texture.
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Helpful notes
Practical storage, serving, swap, and troubleshooting notes for a better first try.
Storage Tips
- Store leftover meatballs and broth in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
Substitutions
- Ground turkey can be used instead of ground pork for a leaner option.
- You can substitute bok choy with napa cabbage if preferred.
What to Serve With
- Steamed rice
- Noodles
- Stir-fried vegetables
Common Mistakes
- Not mixing the meatball ingredients thoroughly, which can lead to uneven texture.
- Overcooking the meatballs can make them tough.
Recipe FAQ
What type of meat should I use for Lion's Head Meatballs?
Ground pork is traditionally used, but you can also mix in ground beef or turkey if preferred.
Can I make Lion's Head Meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them before cooking.
Kitchen tools
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Rice cooker
Good for steady rice, grains, and meal-prep bowls.
Blender
Helpful for smooth sauces, soups, marinades, and purees.
Saucepan
Useful for simmering sauces, soups, grains, and small-batch stews.
Skillet
Useful for browning, quick sautes, and weeknight one-pan cooking.
Chef knife
A basic prep tool for vegetables, herbs, aromatics, and proteins.
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