Meatballs and Gravy

Ingredients

Meatballs:

• 500 g (1.1 lb) lean ground beef
• 2 slices bread, crusts removed, cut or torn into small cubes
• ⅓ cup milk (any type)
• ⅓ cup grated onion
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ tablespoon herb de Provence
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or any cooking oil)

Gravy:

• 450 ml (1.9 cups) low sodium beef stock (or as needed)
• 2½ tablespoons flour
• 40 g (2.8 tablespoons) butter
• ½ tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatballs:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced bread, grated onion, and milk. Let it soak for about 5 minutes until the bread is completely soaked and forms a paste-like mixture.
   • Add ground beef, egg, salt, pepper, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and herb de Provence to the bowl. Gently mix until just combined (avoid over-mixing to keep meatballs tender).
   • Shape the mixture into round balls (about 18-22 meatballs) and place them on a lined baking tray.

2. Cook the Meatballs:

   • Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides. You may need to cook them in batches. Transfer cooked meatballs to a plate and set aside.

3. Make the Gravy:

   • In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for about 30 seconds.
   • Gradually add beef stock, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens. Reduce heat and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
   • Stir in onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), soy sauce, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. If the gravy is too thick, add a bit of water.

4. Combine Meatballs and Gravy:

   • Return the cooked meatballs to the pan with the gravy. Spoon the gravy over the meatballs and simmer for 3 minutes to let the flavors meld.

5. Serve:

   • Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve the meatballs and gravy over creamy mashed potatoes or your choice of side.

Enjoy your hearty meal! If you have any questions or need further adjustments, feel free to ask.