Korean BBQ Meatballs (Print Version)

Umami-packed beef meatballs with Korean flavors, baked until golden and paired with tangy spicy mayo for the perfect bite.

# Ingredients:

→ Meatballs

01 - 1 lb (454g) ground beef
02 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
03 - 1/2 inch fresh ginger, grated
04 - 2 green onions, finely chopped
05 - 1 large egg
06 - 1/4 cup (30g) breadcrumbs
07 - 2 tablespoons soy sauce
08 - 1 tablespoon sesame oil
09 - 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
10 - 1 tablespoon brown sugar
11 - 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
12 - 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for binding)
13 - Salt and black pepper to taste
14 - Toasted sesame seeds for garnish
15 - Chopped scallions for garnish

→ Spicy Mayo Dip

16 - 1/2 cup (120ml) mayonnaise
17 - 1 tablespoon gochujang
18 - 1 teaspoon lime juice
19 - 1/2 teaspoon honey

# Steps:

01 - Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped green onions, egg, breadcrumbs, soy sauce, sesame oil, gochujang, brown sugar, rice vinegar, cornstarch if using, salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
03 - Using clean hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch (2.5cm) meatballs of equal size.
04 - Arrange the formed meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked through and nicely browned on the outside.
05 - While the meatballs are baking, whisk together mayonnaise, gochujang, lime juice, and honey in a small bowl until smooth and well combined.
06 - Transfer the warm meatballs to a serving platter. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped scallions. Serve with the spicy mayo dip on the side or drizzled over the top.

# Notes:

01 - These meatballs can be served as appetizers with toothpicks, in rice bowls, or wrapped in lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.
02 - For extra flavor, you can brush the meatballs with additional Korean BBQ sauce during the last 5 minutes of baking.
03 - Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave or oven.