Sweet and Sour Meatballs (Suan T'ien Niu Jou Po Lo La Tzu)

I grew up in Japan, and my Mother got this recipe from some Catholic nuns there during the 50's. It's been a family favorite ever since. If you're a vegetarian, try this sauce with vegetables only. It's wonderful that way also!

• Preparation Time: 30 mins
• Cooking Time: 30 mins
• Total Time: 60 mins
• Calories: 341 Calories

Ingredients

• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 pinch ground black pepper
• 6 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons distilled white vinegar
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 4 tablespoons diced onion
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large green bell pepper, cut into thin strips
• 4 slices fresh pineapple, cut into pieces
• ¼ carrot, thinly sliced
• ⅓ onion, cut into wedges and separated

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, cornstarch, salt, diced onion and pepper. Form into 1 inch meatballs; about 20.

Step 2

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the meatballs; drain fat and set aside.

Step 3

Heat the oil in a large saucepan over low heat. Pour in the pineapple juice and simmer for a few minutes.

Step 4

In a small bowl, combine the 3 tablespoons of cornstarch, soy sauce, vinegar and water. Stir until smooth and pour into the pineapple juice. Add the sugar and simmer until thickened, stirring constantly.

Step 5

Place the meatballs, pineapple pieces, green pepper, carrot and onion into the sauce mixture. Heat thoroughly.