Southwestern Turkey Bites

Want to add a little turkey to your holiday dinner buffet without all the fuss of cooking a full turkey?  These Turkey Bites should fit the bill.  If you are looking for something a little less spicy, the hot sauce, chili powder and cayenne pepper may be omitted. Ground beef will also work well in this recipe if you prefer.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 C dry bread crumbs
• 1/2 C green pepper, chopped
• 2 egg whites
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 8 drops hot sauce
• 1 lb. lean ground turkey
• 1 Tbsp. canola oil
• 1 C ketchup
• 1/2 C water
• 1/4 C lemon juice
• 1/4 C red wine vinegar
• 2 Tbsp. molasses
• 2 Tbsp. brown sugar
• 2 tsp. dry mustard powder
• 1 tsp. chili powder
• 1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper
• 1/2 tsp. pepper

Directions:

Place the bread crumbs, green pepper, egg whites, garlic and hot sauce into a mixing bowl and whisk until well combined. Break the turkey into the mixture and mix well. Shape the mixture into small meatballs. Pour the canola oil into a skillet and place on medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the meatballs. Brown the meatballs for 8 minutes, turning frequently until browned on all sides. Drain the meatballs well and return to the skillet.

In a bowl, whisk together the ketchup, water, lemon juice, vinegar, and molasses. Sprinkle the brown sugar, mustard, chili powders, and both peppers. Whisk until well combined.

Pour the sauce in with the meatballs. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and simmer for 10 minutes or until heated through. Makes 10 servings.