MEATBALLS WINTER MELON AND MUSHROOM HOT POT

This recipe looks difficult with a long list of ingredients but actually it is not.  There is only 3 main ingredients, the rest are marinades and seasoning.  I have no regrets trying out this recipe.  It does not only look refreshing and tempting but also tastes good.  I believe, it is suitable for all ages.  Moreover, it is a quick cook dish once you assemble the ingredients.

The meatballs and mushrooms are tasty, the winter melon are soft and also absorbs the flavours well.  It looks a presentable dish for  family dinners or gatherings.

Recipe adapted from Yum Yum Magazine No. 103 with modifications

Ingredients

[serves 3]

200 gm minced meat with some fats 

1/4 tsp each of salt, pepper and sesame seed oil

dash of msg or 1/4 tsp sugar [I prefer to use msg]

1/2 tsp light soy sauce

3/4 tbsp cornstarch

1/2 tbsp oil

some slices of ginger

2 stalks spring onions - cut sections

6 dried mushrooms - soaked

150 gm winter melon - skinned and cut into chunks

some sliced red carrots

250 ml - 300 ml water

Seasoning [combined]

1 tsp each oyster sauce, light soy sauce and shaoxing wine

1/4 tsp salt to taste

dash of msg

1. Meatballs - Put all the meatball ingredients into a mixing bowl [except cornstarch], stir in one direction until sticky.  Add in the cornstarch and stir again until sticky.  Gather up the minced meat paste and hit it against the base of the bowl for 3-4 times to firm up the mixture.  Rest mixture while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Heat up oil in a non stick wok, saute ginger and some spring onions until fragrant and slightly charred. 
3. Add in mushrooms, carrots and winter melon.  Stir to mix well, then pour in the seasoning and water.  Bring to boil for 5 minutes.
4. Put shaped meatballs to cook, cover and simmer till the meatballs are firm and cooked.  Meanwhile, heat up a claypot.  Stir in spring onions.
5. Pour into claypot, serve hot.
   
   
   
   

This post is linked to Cookbook Countdown Event #16 hosted by Joyce of Kitchen Flavours and Emily of Emily's Cooking [Makan2] Foray