Bola-Bola, a beloved Filipino meatball dish, combines savory ground meat, aromatic seasonings, and a touch of sweetness, making it a family favorite. Whether you’re new to Filipino cuisine or a seasoned cook, this easy recipe will guide you to create a delicious meal in just 30 minutes. Let’s dive into the world of Filipino balls and bring this classic to your table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It is a Filipino favorite for a reason—it’s hearty, versatile, and bursting with flavor. These meatballs are typically made with ground pork or beef, mixed with breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings, then fried or simmered in a rich sauce. Whether you’re enjoying them as a standalone dish or adding them to a noodle soup, this Bola-Bola recipe is sure to satisfy. Plus, it’s a great way to bring a taste of the Philippines to your kitchen.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples you likely already have.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it with rice, in soups, or as an appetizer.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
- Quick to Make: Ready in under 40 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground pork (or beef)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small carrot, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup cooking oil (for frying)
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped scallions for garnish
Steps to Create Recipe
- Mix the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, carrot, garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the Bola-Bola: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls, making about 20 meatballs.
- Fry the Meatballs: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the meatballs in batches for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Transfer to a plate, garnish with scallions, and serve with steamed rice or your favorite dipping sauce (like sweet chili or soy-vinegar).
Tips
- Add Veggies: Grated carrots or water chestnuts add texture and moisture.
- Make It Saucy: Simmer the fried meatballs in a sweet-soy glaze (soy sauce, sugar, and water) for extra flavor.
- Use in Soups: Add Bola-Bola to misua or sotanghon soup for a hearty meal.
- Make Ahead: Shape the meatballs in advance and refrigerate until ready to cook.
For more meatball cooking techniques, check out Serious Eats.
Variations
Here are some ways to switch it up:
- Soup: Add the meatballs to a broth with noodles and greens.
- Stuffed : Insert a boiled quail egg inside each meatball before frying.
- with Sauce: Serve with a sweet and sour sauce for a tangy twist.
Final Thoughts
This recipe brings the comforting flavors of Filipino cuisine to your table in a simple, delicious way. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, these meatballs are sure to impress. Try experimenting with variations or serving styles, and let us know how it turns out in the comments! For more Filipino recipes, explore Bon Appétit.
