Tapas-Style Bison Meatballs with Smoked Paprika and Carrots

Why bison? Bison is a leaner, more ethically sourced alternative that’s higher in iron and various other nutrients.

You can generally find bison ground in the freezer or meat section of speciality grocery stores like Whole Foods or on-line. I always keep one package in my freezer to have on hand when I’m feeling a red meat craving — usually around that time of the month.

And these meatballs are my go-to recipe. The smoked paprika and carrots add a subtle sweetness that pairs really well with the bison’s slightly gamey flavor.

I’ll serve them over a salad usually. And once they’re made store leftovers in the freezer for easy reheating on another day.

Tapas-Style Bison Meatballs with Smoked Paprika and Carrots

MAKES 12 LARGER OR 20 SMALLER MEATBALLS

INGREDIENTS:

1 pound ground bison
1 large carrot, grated
1 shallot, minced
2 garlic cloves, minced
Large handful parsley, finely chopped
1 1/2 tsp. cumin
1 1/2 tsp. smoked paprika
1 egg, beaten
1 tsp fine sea salt, or to taste
Several grinds black pepper, to taste

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 425 degrees and line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
Combine all ingredients except bison in a medium-sized mixing bowl. Add bison meat and gently mix together.
Wet hands to prevent sticking and roll mixture into uniform balls.
Place onto prepared sheet pan, spaced 1-inch apart, and bake for 15-20 minutes depending on size (or until a meat thermometer registers 165 degrees F).
STORAGE: Meatballs will keep in the fridge for 2-3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.