Polpetti Al Forno

These Polpetti Al Forno are a stunningly simple but indulgent family style Italian favourite of mine.

I have travelled to Italy a number of times and always learn some new culinary gems while I am there.

This polpetti al forno is my twist on a classic Southern meatball recipe but baked almost like a lasagne but without the pasta. I created it a number of years ago while I had my children’s cookery school at the Cliff at Lyons in Kildare and let me tell you the kids adored it. Thats why I have decided to share it here.

I will give you some of my wonderful secrets to the best polpetti ( baby meatballs ) in the world and show you how to cook like a real Italian.

Although this recipe is a little more indulgent than normal there are a couple of core Foodoppi principles at its heart:

• Cook from scratch  – like your granny and the Italian Nonna’s  –  that way you know exactly what goes into it for your family.
• Wholemeal bread to get in a little extra fibre anywhere possible
• Sneaky veg –  a lovely sweet summery courgette to get in some extra veg where possible.
• Family style cooking  –  by serving and eating together in this family “help yourself” style it really helps children be a little more adventurous and try new foods as they are in control.

Now to the recipe

Secrets of a perfect meatball !

1. Use a combination of two meats –  beef and pork –  the flavour payoff and texture is incredible. Traditionally it would be veal or a combo of veal and one or the other but lets face it who is going searching for veal on a Tuesday ?
2. Soak the bread in milk –  best tip ever !!! this keeps the meatballs incredibly moist and soft.
3. Add parmesan for natural umami  –  that delicious deep rich savoury flavour ( means less added salt int eh recipe)
4. Use 1 herb only dried oregano – fresh herbs stay “too big” and obvious for little ones so dried herbs are more intense, you use less and they can’t really be detected but add a great authentic Italian background flavour.
5. Saute  / brown them off for a little caramelisation and an extra oomph of umami flavour.

Keep on reading for the full recipe, I hope your family love my polpetti as much as mine and if you do make them be sure to share a pic on social media and tag us.

With fun and deliciousness,

Aisling Larkin