Bocadillo de Albóndigas (Meatball Sandwich)

Bocadillo de Albóndigas is a sandwich filled with juicy meatballs bathed in a simple yet flavorful tomato sauce. The combination of the tender meatballs, the tanginess of the tomato sauce, and the creaminess of pecorino cheese creates a mouthwatering experience. Garnished with fresh parsley for an extra burst of freshness. This recipe is perfect for a satisfying meal for two, served in mini baguettes or Turkish bread.

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

1 loaf of white bread (about 200g), crust removed and soaked in milk

250g ground beef

1 small onion (finely chopped)

1 small tomato (finely chopped)

Salt and pepper (to taste)

Olive oil (for frying)

For the Tomato Sauce:

2 large tomatoes

1 small onion

2 cloves of garlic

Salt and pepper (to taste)

For Assembly:

2 mini baguettes or Turkish bread, shaped like baguettes

Pecorino cheese (grated or shaved, for garnish)

Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Directions:

In a mixing bowl, combine the soaked white bread (squeeze out excess milk) with the ground beef, chopped onion, chopped tomato, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about the size of a golf ball.
In a large frying pan, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the meatballs from the pan and set them aside.
In a blender or food processor, blend the tomatoes, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper until you have a smooth sauce.
In the same pan, add the tomato sauce and bring it to a simmer. Add the cooked meatballs back into the pan and let them simmer in the sauce for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are cooked through.
While the meatballs are simmering, cut the mini baguettes or Turkish bread lengthwise, creating a pocket for the meatballs.
Once the meatballs are cooked, carefully spoon them into the bread pockets.
Garnish the meatball sandwiches with grated or shaved pecorino cheese and fresh chopped parsley.
Serve the Bocadillo de Albóndigas immediately and enjoy the flavorful combination of tender meatballs, tangy tomato sauce, and the added richness of pecorino cheese.