Shelly's Recipe

MEXICAN MEATBALL SUBS

Category: Sandwiches

1 lbs meatloaf mix (ground beef, pork and veal)
1/4 cup finely crushed tortilla chips
1 large egg, beaten
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus 3 sprigs
1/4 cup finely chopped scallions, plus more for garnish (optional)
3 cloves garlic; 1 minced, 2 smashed
3 tsp ancho chili powder
2 tsp ground cumin
Kosher salt
1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
2 cups canned fire-roasted diced tomatoes
4 crusty sub rolls, halved and split open
Diced avocado and crumbled Mexican cheese, for garnish (optional)

Preheat the oven to 350. Mix the meat, tortilla chips, egg, chopped cilantro, 1/4 cup scallions, minced garlic, 1 tsp chili power, 1 tsp cumin, and salt to taste in a bowl. Roll into 16 small meatballs.

Heat the olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and lightly brown, turning as needed, about 5 minutes. Add the smashed garlic and the remaining 2 tsp chili powder and 1 tsp cumin; cook for 1 to 2 minutes. Add the tomatoes, cilantro sprigs and 1 1/2 cups water and season with salt. Bring to a simmer, then cover, reduce the heat to low and cook until the sauce thickens and the meatballs are tender, about 15 minutes.

About 5 minutes before the meatballs are done, toast the rolls in the oven. Place 2 roll halves in each of 4 shallow bowls and top with 4 meatballs. Drizzle with sauce, then pour the remaining sauce into the bowls. Top with avocado, cheese and/or scallions, if desired.