Cairat's Meatballs

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

- 1 pound ground beef

- 1/2 pound ground pork

- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

- Salt and black pepper to taste

- 2 large eggs

For the Sauce:

- 1 cup red wine

- 1 cup beef broth

- 1 cup peeled and chopped chestnuts

- 2 ripe pears, peeled and diced

- 1 onion, finely chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- 1 tablespoon tomato paste

- 1 teaspoon dried thyme

- Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

Meatballs:

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and eggs. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

2. Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter.

3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, working in batches if necessary. Once browned, set aside.

Sauce:

1. In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.

2. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes.

3. Pour in red wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits.

4. Add beef broth, diced pears, chopped chestnuts, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

5. Return the meatballs to the skillet, ensuring they are immersed in the sauce. Cover and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.

6. Serve the Cairat Meatballs over a bed of rice or with crusty bread, spooning the flavorful wine sauce, chestnuts, and pears over the top.