Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground pork (or ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option)
- 1/2 cup fresh Thai basil leaves, finely chopped (regular sweet basil works too)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small shallot, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (substitute with soy sauce for a milder taste)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, adjust to spice preference)
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning)
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Optional dipping sauce: sweet chili sauce or a mix of lime juice, fish sauce, and a pinch of sugar
Instructions
- Start by preheating your grill or broiler to medium-high heat. If you’re using an oven, you can also bake the meatballs at 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground pork with finely chopped Thai basil, minced garlic, diced shallot, fish sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, black pepper, and chili flakes if you like a little kick.
- Add the beaten egg and panko breadcrumbs to the meat mixture. This helps bind everything together and keeps the meatballs tender.
- Using your hands, gently mix all ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat, or the meatballs can turn tough.
- Shape the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. This size cooks quickly and makes for perfect skewering.
- Thread 3-4 meatballs onto each skewer, spacing them slightly apart to ensure even cooking.
- Place the skewers on the grill or under the broiler. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, turning carefully until the meatballs are cooked through and nicely browned all over. If baking, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Once cooked, remove the skewers from heat and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the meatballs juicy.
- Serve warm with lime wedges and your preferred dipping sauce. I like to drizzle a little fresh lime juice over the top for a bright finish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International