General Tso's Meatballs (Low Carb & Gluten Free)
A low carb meatball with all of the flavors and textures of the classic Chinese takeout favorite!
A low carb meatball with all of the flavors and textures of the classic Chinese takeout favorite!
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp sesame oil
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup scallions chopped
- 1 lb ground turkey or chicken
- 2 tbl minced ginger
- light flavored oil for frying (olive grapeseed, etc)
- 3 tbl rice wine vinegar (unseasoned - sugar free)
- 3 tbl soy sauce (tamari based for gf or coconut aminos for paleo)
- 3 tbl sugar substitute (honey for paleo)
- 1/2 tsp xanthan gum (or arrowroot powder)
- 4 - 5 small dried chilies seeded and chopped
- Carbohydrate 3.19665969111316 g
- Cholesterol 89.584493075 mg
- Fat 12.8847718156112 g
- Fiber 1.15843122569247 g
- Protein 21.4384450762419 g
- Saturated Fat 2.86151992502339 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (150g)
- Sodium 109.737488206811 mg
- Sugar 2.0382284654207 g
- Trans Fat 1.2327654542842 g
- Calories 216 calories
Step-by-step
- Combine all of the meatball ingredients and mix thoroughly.
- Form into 16 balls and saute/fry in oil over medium heat until cooked through and crispy.
- Alternatively you could bake them but they won't get the crunchy exterior.
- Combine the sesame oil, vinegar, GF soy sauce, water, sugar substitute, and xanthan gum in a small saucepan and whisk until combined.
- Add the scallions and chili pepper and bring to a boil.
- Simmer for five minutes until thickened and remove from heat.
- Add the cooked meatballs to the thickened sauce and stir to coat.
- Garnish with more chopped scallions and chilis if desired.
General Tso's Meatballs: A Weeknight Winner
Let's be honest, moms are busy. Between school runs, work deadlines, and keeping the household afloat, finding time for a gourmet meal often feels like a luxury. But what if I told you that you could enjoy a restaurant-quality meal, bursting with flavor, without spending hours slaving away in the kitchen? This recipe for General Tso's Meatballs is my secret weapon for those crazy weeknights. It’s quick, delicious, and incredibly satisfying, and even better, it's a healthier twist on a takeout classic. I've swapped out the heavy breading for almond flour to keep it low-carb and gluten-free, perfect for those watching their waistline or avoiding gluten.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The meatballs themselves come together in minutes, requiring no special skills or equipment. Ground turkey or chicken provides a lean protein base, and the blend of ginger, garlic, and scallions delivers an aromatic punch. You can easily adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer chilies, accommodating the palate of your family. The sauce is where the magic truly happens. A vibrant blend of rice wine vinegar, soy sauce (I use tamari for a gluten-free option), and a touch of sweetness creates a perfectly balanced glaze. The xanthan gum adds just the right amount of thickness, ensuring that the sauce clings beautifully to those crispy meatballs.
I often double this recipe, making a larger batch for leftovers. This is a huge time-saver during the week. I'll pack the meatballs in individual containers for quick lunches or snacks. My kids love them too; they're a fantastic way to sneak in extra veggies and protein. Even my husband, who isn’t usually a big fan of “healthy” meals, raves about them.
Beyond Weeknights: This recipe isn't just for busy weeknights; it's incredibly versatile. It’s a great dish for potlucks, parties, or even a simple, yet impressive, dinner with friends. The meatballs can be prepared ahead of time, making it the perfect make-ahead meal for entertaining. The flavors develop beautifully as they sit, making them even more delicious. Serve them with cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips and Variations: Feel free to experiment with the recipe. Instead of ground turkey or chicken, try ground pork or beef. For added texture, incorporate finely chopped water chestnuts or mushrooms into the meatballs. If you don't have xanthan gum, arrowroot powder works equally well as a thickening agent in the sauce. And remember, the beauty of cooking is personalizing the recipes to your taste.
The Verdict? This General Tso’s Meatballs recipe is a true winner. It's a delicious, healthy, and convenient option for busy families and anyone looking for a quick and flavorful meal. Trust me; it's worth trying, and it will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
So, the next time you’re short on time but craving a flavorful and satisfying dinner, remember this recipe. It’s your weeknight savior. Your family will thank you!
