If you’re craving a flavorful, meat-free dish that’s sweet, spicy, and savory all in one, you’ve got to try these Hot Honey Garlic “No-Beef Balls”! This dish combines plant-based goodness with a deliciously sticky sauce that’s perfect over rice or alongside your favorite veggies. Using Dopsu “No-Beef Balls” makes this recipe both sustainable and high in protein, so it’s a win for you and the planet. Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying meal!
Method
Cook the “No-Beef Balls”
Start by preheating your air fryer to 180°C (350°F). This ensures that the “No-Beef Balls” will cook evenly and develop a nice, crispy exterior. Once the air fryer is ready, place the Dopsu “No-Beef Balls” in the basket, making sure they are spaced out to allow for even airflow. Cook them for approximately 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure they brown on all sides. If you don’t have an air fryer, baking is a great alternative—simply follow the package instructions for oven baking. Regardless of the method, the goal is to achieve a crispy outside with a tender, juicy interior.
Prepare the Sauce Base
While the “No-Beef Balls” are cooking, begin working on the sauce base. Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat and add a small amount of oil—just enough to lightly coat the bottom of the pan. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and red pepper. Sauté them until they become soft and translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid burning. Then, add the crushed garlic cloves and continue cooking for another 30 seconds, or until the garlic becomes fragrant. This step builds the foundation of the sauce’s rich flavor.
Make the Sauce
With the aromatics ready, it’s time to add the liquids and spices that create the signature hot honey garlic flavor. Reduce the heat to low and add the honey, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sriracha, and a pinch of chili flakes to the pan. Stir the mixture well so all the ingredients combine smoothly into a glossy sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The sauce will gradually thicken due to the honey, creating a rich and sticky texture that will coat the “No-Beef Balls” perfectly.
Combine and Cook Together
Once the “No-Beef Balls” are fully cooked, transfer them directly into the pan with the simmering sauce. Stir thoroughly to ensure each ball is evenly coated in the sticky, flavorful mixture. Allow the balls to simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes over low heat. This extra cooking time helps the sauce cling to the surface of the “No-Beef Balls,” enhancing the flavor with every bite while allowing the sauce to reach its perfect consistency.
Plate and Serve
Now that everything is cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve your creation. Spoon the hot honey garlic “No-Beef Balls” over a bed of freshly steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or noodles. For added texture and nutrition, pair the dish with steamed tenderstem broccoli or your favorite vegetables. To elevate the presentation and add extra crunch, garnish with sesame seeds and a sprinkle of freshly chopped spring onions.
Hot Honey Garlic “No-Beef Balls”
Equipment
- Air fryer or oven
- Non-stick frying pan
- Mixing spoon
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- For the "No-Beef Balls":
- 1 pack Dopsu “No-Beef Balls”
- For the Hot Honey Garlic Sauce:
- 4 tbsp honey
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sriracha
- 2 crushed garlic cloves
- Pinch of chili flakes
- 1/2 red pepper diced
- 1/2 onion diced
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the “No-Beef Balls”.
- Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F). Add the Dopsu “No-Beef Balls” and cook for 15 minutes, shaking halfway through. (You can also bake them in the oven if you prefer—follow the package instructions.)
- Step 2: Prep the Sauce Base.
- While the “No-Beef Balls” are cooking, heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Add a little oil, then fry the diced onion and red pepper until soft. Add the garlic and fry for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 3: Make the Sauce.
- Add the honey, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sriracha, and chili flakes to the pan. Stir everything together and reduce the heat to low. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
- Step 4: Combine and Serve.
- Once the “No-Beef Balls” are cooked, add them to the pan with the sauce. Stir to coat them evenly and let them simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
- Step 5: Plate Up.
- Serve the hot honey garlic “No-Beef Balls” over steamed rice, with tenderstem broccoli or your favorite veggies on the side.
Notes
- Sauce Consistency: Don’t overcook the sauce—it thickens quickly due to the honey.
- Even Cooking: If using an air fryer, shake the “No-Beef Balls” halfway through cooking for even crispiness.
- Adjust Spice: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of sriracha and chili flakes.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with jasmine rice, quinoa, or even noodles.
- Add a side of roasted veggies like carrots, zucchini, or asparagus.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped spring onions for extra flavor and crunch.
Fun Fact
Did you know that “hot honey” originated as a pizza topping in New York City? It’s become a worldwide sensation, adding a sweet and spicy kick to everything from fried chicken to roasted veggies.
Conclusion
These Hot Honey Garlic “No-Beef Balls” are a delightful way to enjoy a meat-free dinner packed with flavor. The sticky, spicy sauce combined with the plant-based protein makes this a meal you’ll want to cook on repeat. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it out and let me know how you served yours—maybe with some garlic noodles or a side salad? 😋🍴