Braised Lion's Head Meatballs

Braised Lion's Head Meatballs are a comforting Chinese dish featuring large, tender meatballs simmered in a savory broth, often served with leafy greens. This high-protein meal is perfect for a cozy dinner, delivering both flavor and nutrition.

Ingredients

• Ground pork - 300 grams
• Green onions - 2, finely chopped
• Ginger - 1 tablespoon, minced
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Soy sauce - 2 tablespoons
• Shaoxing wine - 1 tablespoon
• Sesame oil - 1 teaspoon
• Cornstarch - 1 tablespoon
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
• Bok choy - 200 grams, chopped
• Chicken broth - 500 milliliters
• Sugar - 1 teaspoon
• Star anise - 1
• Cooking oil - 1 tablespoon

Steps

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, green onions, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sesame oil, cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Form the mixture into 4 large meatballs, about 75 grams each.
3. Heat cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and sear until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the meatballs and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the chicken broth, sugar, star anise, and bring to a simmer.
5. Carefully return the meatballs to the skillet, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 30 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking.
6. In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the chopped bok choy to the skillet, cover, and allow to wilt.
7. Remove the star anise before serving. Plate the meatballs with the bok choy and ladle some broth over the top.

Nutrition

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 34 g
• Carbs: 12 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 950 mg
• Cholesterol: 100 mg
• Total Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• High in protein, supporting muscle growth and repair.
• Rich in vitamins and minerals from bok choy, promoting overall health.

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