Beef Meat Balls
By Sho @ Hungry for Thai
on
Dec 27th 2024
Another popular snack that can be found everywhere in Thailand is ลูกชิ้น-luk chin (meatballs). It's a versatile snack that people enjoy at any time. Personally, I love eating them in various ways—grilled, fried, added to noodle soup, or in spicy salads. If you walk through street food markets, this is definitely one menu item you'll come across. They can be made from pork, beef, fish, chicken, or shrimp. I really love them!
Table of Contents
Meatballs are a shared culinary tradition that can be found all around the world. Whether in the Western or Eastern Hemisphere, many cuisines feature dishes made from meat formed into balls. The primary purpose of this preparation was originally food preservation, but the differences lie in the spices used in the mixture and the names of the dishes.
Experience the vibrant flavors of Thailand with Beef Meat Balls, feel free to adjust the spices and seasonings to your liking.
What you'll need
- Minced beef - The main ingredient providing the meaty base and flavor for the meatballs.
- Seasoning powder - Enhances the overall flavor of the meatballs. You can use beef-flavored seasoning powder or a versatile all-purpose seasoning.
- Sugar - Essential for enhancing and bringing out the natural flavor of the beef.
- Baking powder - Helps create a slightly airy and tender texture in the meatballs by improving the binding and structure.
- Salt - Essential for enhancing and bringing out the natural flavor of the beef.
- Tapioca Flour - Acts as a binder to hold the mixture together and gives the meatballs a smooth and springy texture.
- Soy Sauce - A versatile condiment that can be added (about 1 teaspoon) to enhance the umami flavor of the meatballs. It deepens the savory taste and adds a subtle richness to the overall profile.
- Water - Hydrates the mixture, making it easier to blend and shape while contributing to the meatballs' soft and moist texture.

Beef Meat Balls
Prep time
2 hours 20 minutes
Cook time
40 minutes
Serves
3
Ingredients
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Main
Steps
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Prepare the Ingredients:
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Blend all the ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
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Refrigerate the mixture in the normal fridge compartment for 2 hours.
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Cook the Beef Meat Balls:
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Cook the meatballs in water, but do not let the water boil as it may cause the meatballs to crack. Use low heat instead.
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Shape the meatballs into small or large sizes, depending on your preference. If you have a meatball mold, you can use that as well.
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Simmer until the meatballs are cooked. The meatballs will float to the surface when done (if unsure, cut one open to check the inside).
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Scoop the meatballs out and transfer them to a bowl of cold water (you can add ice in the water). Let them cool for 10 minutes to release heat.
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Remove the meatballs and place them in a colander to drain off the water completely.
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The meatballs are ready to use in various dishes such as noodle soup, grilled meatballs, spicy meatball salad, or any recipe of your choice.
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Nutritional info
% of daily valueCalorie Breakdown
Protein
427 cal
Fat
217 cal
Carbs
165 cal
If making grilled meatballs, it's recommended to pair them with tamarind dipping sauce for an enhanced flavor. Serve alongside sliced cucumbers and fresh cilantro for the best experience.
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