Sweet and sour meatballs

Appetizer

Item Rating: 65/100

1 serving (150 grams) contains 250 calories, 15.0 grams of protein, 12.0 grams of fat, and 20.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (238.1g)

Calories		396.8
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		19.0 g	24%
	Saturated Fat	6.3 g	31%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	0 g
Cholesterol		79.4 mg	26%
Sodium		952.4 mg	41%
Total Carbohydrates		31.7 g	11%
	Dietary Fiber	3.2 g	11%
	Sugars	15.9 g
protein		23.8 g	47%
Vitamin D		15.9 mcg	79%
Calcium		63.5 mg	4%
Iron		3.2 mg	17%
Potassium		476.2 mg	10%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

⚠️ Contains trans fat

Source of Calories

Fat: 171 cal (43.5%)

Protein: 95 cal (24.2%)

Carbs: 126 cal (32.3%)

About Sweet and sour meatballs

Sweet and sour meatballs are a popular dish blending savory meat with the tangy-sweet flavors of a vinegar and sugar-based sauce. Originating in Chinese cuisine and widely adopted into Western cooking, these meatballs typically consist of ground meat (beef, pork, or turkey), breadcrumbs, and seasoning, combined with a sauce featuring ingredients like pineapple juice, vinegar, and soy sauce. Their nutritional profile can vary, but they generally provide protein from the meat and modest amounts of fiber and vitamins from added vegetables or fruits (such as bell peppers or pineapple). The sauce, however, can contribute significant sugar and sodium content, depending on the recipe.

Health Benefits

• High-quality protein from ground meat supports muscle growth and repair, with 20-25g of protein per serving depending on the meat used.
• Vitamin C from pineapple or bell peppers in the dish contributes to immune function and collagen production.
• Iron from red meat (if used) can help prevent anemia and maintain energy levels.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains gluten (breadcrumbs or soy sauce), soy (soy sauce), egg (if used as a binder)

Suitable for: High-protein diets, non-vegetarian diets

Not suitable for: Vegetarian or vegan diets, gluten-free diets (unless substitutions are made), low-sodium diets (due to soy sauce or seasoning)

Selection and Storage

Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before consumption.

Common Questions About Sweet and sour meatballs Nutrition

What is the nutritional content of sweet and sour meatballs?

Sweet and sour meatballs typically contain around 200-300 calories per serving, depending on the recipe. They provide approximately 10-15 grams of protein per serving, along with carbohydrates from the sauce and a small amount of fat from the meat. Vitamins and minerals such as iron and vitamin B12 are also present if the meatballs are made from beef or pork.

Are sweet and sour meatballs compatible with ketogenic or low-carb diets?

Sweet and sour meatballs are usually not keto-friendly due to the high sugar content in the sauce, which can contain upwards of 15-20 grams of carbohydrates per serving. However, you can make a keto version by substituting the sugar with a low-carb sweetener and using a sugar-free tomato sauce base.

Are there any health concerns with eating sweet and sour meatballs?

Consuming sweet and sour meatballs may pose health concerns if they contain high levels of sugar, sodium, or saturated fats, which can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if eaten in excess. Opting for homemade recipes with reduced sugar and lean meats can make them healthier.

What is the recommended portion size for sweet and sour meatballs?

A typical serving size for sweet and sour meatballs is around 3-4 meatballs, which is roughly 150-200 grams. Pairing the dish with vegetables or a whole grain like brown rice can help create a balanced meal without overconsuming calories.

How do sweet and sour meatballs compare to plain meatballs?

Sweet and sour meatballs contain additional sugar and carbohydrates due to the sauce, making them higher in calories compared to plain meatballs. While plain meatballs focus more on protein and fat, sweet and sour meatballs offer a sweet, tangy flavor but can be less suitable for certain diets like keto or low-carb unless modified.

Data Sources & Scientific References