Hearty Italian Meatball Stew

Recipe Source: Rosemary Molloy

Ingredients:

• 1/4-1/2 cup milk
• 2-3 slices bread (crust removed)
• 1 pound ground beef (80% lean)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1-2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions:

1. In a small bowl soak the bread in the milk for about 5 minutes, then squeeze out moisture and crumple into small bits.
2. In a medium bowl combine the bread with ground beef, eggs, parmesan and spices gently mix to combine well.
3. Form into small balls ( a little smaller than the size of a golf ball). In a medium frying pan on medium heat, add the olive oil and the meatballs, brown them on all sides. Remove to a clean plate.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 shallot or small onion chopped
• 1-2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4 medium potatoes (cubed medium/large)
• 2 medium carrots (chopped)
• 2 1/4 cups tomato puree
• 3/4 cup water
• 1/4-1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1-2 dashes black pepper or hot pepper flakes
• 1/2-1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley minced

Directions:

1. In a large pot add the oil, garlic and chopped shallot (or small onion), cook on medium heat until transparent 1-2 minutes.
2. Then add the carrots, potatoes, tomato puree, water and spices, mix together, then add the meatballs, and gently stir to combine.
3. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat, place the lid on the pot but don't completely cover, continue to cook on low heat until thickened about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!