tomatilloguajilloepazote

Meatballs in Guajillo Sauce

Meatballs in Guajillo Sauce

Albóndigas con Salsa de Guajillo

Recipe Yield

6 to 8 servings

Cooking time

1 hour 15 minutes

Rate this recipe

4.45 from 9 votes

Ingredients

  • 6 guajillo chiles stemmed and seeded
  • 2 pounds tomatillos husked and rinsed
  • 3 garlic cloves peeled
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher or coarse sea salt divided, or to taste
  • 2 tablespoons canola or safflower oil
  • 1 1/4 cups finely chopped onion divided
  • 2 pounds ground turkey breast
  • 1/2 cup unseasoned breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg lightly beaten
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 2 sprigs of fresh epazote or cilantro sprigs, or substitute 4 dried leaves

To Prepare

  • Heat a casserole over medium-high heat. Once hot, toast the guajillo chiles, turning often, until toasted deeply browned and you can smell the chile fumes, about 2 minutes. Add the tomatillos and garlic, cover with water, and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium and simmer until the tomatillos are thoroughly cooked, their color has changed from a bright green to olive, and the guajillos have plumped up and rehydrated, about 12 minutes. Remove from the heat.
  • Using a slotted spoon, transfer the tomatillos, garlic, chiles and 1/2 cup cooking liquid to a blender. Allow to cool slightly, add 1 teaspoon salt and puree until completely smooth. Drain the water from the casserole or soup pot, rinse and dry, and return to the stove.
  • Add the oil and heat over medium heat. Once hot, add 1 cup of the chopped onion and cook until tender and the edges have just begun to brown, about 5 minutes. Add the tomatillo puree, cover partially as the thick sauce will splash and splutter, and simmer for about 7 to 8 minutes, until the sauce has thickened and darkened.
  • Meanwhile combine the ground turkey with the breadcrumbs, egg, remaining 1/4 cup onion, remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, and pepper. Mix together well.
  • When the tomatillo puree has cooked down stir in the broth, scraping the bottom and sides of the casserole to incorporate any sauce sticking to the bottom and sides of the pan.
  • Place the ground turkey mixture and a small bowl of water next to the casserole. Wet your hands, and start shaping the turkey into approximately 1 1/2-inch balls. Gently drop the balls into the sauce as you form them. When all the meatballs have been added to the sauce, add the sprigs of epazote or cilantro and simmer over medium heat, uncovered, for 35 minutes. Serve.

Comments

231comments inMeatballs in Guajillo Sauce

  1. Marco Molina

    Feb 08

    I made this recipe. Meatballs in this guajillo sauce came out amazing. Thanks for sharing this wonderful recipe!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Feb 08

      My pleasure Marco, so glad you liked the Albondigas!

  2. Linda

    Sep 18

    The sauce was a bit bitter for my tastes. I know this happens with tomatillos, how do you get rid of the bitterness?

    1. Pati Jinich

      Sep 20

      Tomatillos need to be extra fresh and fir for them not to be bitter Linda 🙂

  3. Susie

    Jul 25

    If I can’t find fresh tomatillos can I use canned?

    1. Pati Jinich

      Sep 04

      Absolutely Susie, go for it!

  4. Jana Odell

    Jul 24

    This recipe sounded so good that I bought one of your cookbooks.

    1. Pati Jinich

      Oct 05

      Yay, this is awesome Jana! Send me your mailing address to hola@patijinich.com and I will send you a sign and dedicated bookplate for your new copy!

  5. Edith Menchaca( San Diego)

    Mar 08

    Can I get the recipe to white rice that aired with the meatballs. Thank you!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Mar 13

      Of course Edith it is Arroz con Chepil, here is the link for you 🙂 http://patijinich.com/arroz-con-chepil/

  6. Bebe

    Mar 07

    Love this so much! Added a habanero just cuz 🔥. Fideo cuz that’s what I had. patijinich es la reina.

    1. Pati Jinich

      Mar 13

      So glad to hear, thanks so much!

  7. Jim Bass

    Nov 17

    These are so delicious! I make them all the time… I am looking recommendations for a complementary side dish which is not rice. Any suggestions? Thank you for sharing this delicious recipe.

    1. Pati Jinich

      Dec 11

      Not rice? Then definitely refried beans, here you go 🙂 http://patijinich.com/oaxaca-style-refried-beans/

  8. MargeNiekamp

    Sep 18

    Delicious with cauliflower rice!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Sep 26

      Great idea, yes!

  9. Jeff Lozano

    Sep 09

    Whomever I may be sending this message to,

    I truly have found on my local PBS T.V. channel the first Mexican Recipe show how to create a true authentic Mexican Dishes from various Family recipes, and if you Mrs. Pati Jinich are the one reading this I love your presentations of how to prepare these dishes is so inviting and simple.

    So whomever Produces this show please keep Mrs. Pati Jinich on the Stream T.V. PBS channel she is a GEM !

    Note : This message comes from a Grandson of an Old Mexican Restaurant Owners back in the “1960” . “LOZANO’S” On the west coast California

    Pati, you have taught me so much watching your show. As you might relate to this that most Mexican dishes are from memory than written, in which my Grandmother took to the Heavens. Whomever reads this you have taken me back in time.

    1. Pati Jinich

      Sep 11

      Your message is incredibly kind Jeff, thanks so very much for taking the time to reach out. So glad you have been tuning in and enjoying my recipes. Un abrazo grande!! Pati.

  10. Mike

    Aug 24

    Best meatballs I’ve ever made! Perfect with the Chocolate Salami recipe for dessert!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Sep 05

      Sounds like a meal to me!

  11. Kathy

    Aug 22

    This is so good. My husband loved it and he doesn’t like ground turkey. Thank you!!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Sep 05

      Yay! So glad to hear he loved these albondigas!

  12. Pam

    Jul 24

    I made this recipe, but the sauce was very bitter. It was my first time using guajillos. Any clue what happened?
    I live in San Diego, so getting supplies is easy.
    I’m worried about trying another sauce with guajillo.
    I did buy some new ones too try again.
    Just hoping all those yummy sauce aren’t that bitter.

    1. Pati Jinich

      Aug 16

      Hi Pam, I suspect that the bitterness might have come from your tomatillos and not your chiles. Tomatillos need to be super fresh and firm because otherwise they overripe way to quick. I hope your second try gets much better!

  13. Martha loya ,subscriber allready

    Nov 12

    Delicious best meatballs ever

    1. Pati Jinich

      Dec 28

      Glad you like them!

  14. Joey

    Nov 09

    I made these twice. Once with just Turkey and once with a Turkey and beef combo and prefer the combination of the two meats and the added fat from the beef came the meatballs a better texture. Great recipe.

    1. Pati Jinich

      Jan 03

      So glad you liked it Joey 🙂

  15. Norma in El Paso

    Nov 01

    I prepared this for supper tonight. Used ground beef, didn’t have ground turkey. Delicious!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Jan 02

      Albondigas de carne are delicious as well, so glad you liked them Norma 🙂

  16. Veronica Ronaszeki

    Oct 25

    I loved Pati’s cooking show and this recipe along with the rice!!!!! I’m definitely buying her cook books!!!!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Oct 29

      Thanks so much Veronica!!!! Here is the link to buy the books 🙂 http://patijinich.com/cookbook/

  17. Randy a

    Oct 09

    I would like the rice side dish she made with this on the show

    1. Pati Jinich

      Oct 12

      Of course, her you go Randy, enjoy! http://patijinich.com/arroz-con-chepil/

  18. Ida Weiner

    Oct 07

    Love this recipe- make it all the time and one of my husband’s favorite. Gracias Pati for introducing guajillo chiles in my cooking! Delisioso!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Oct 11

      So glad you guys like these meatballs Ida, hugs to you and your husband!

  19. Anonymous

    Sep 05

    looks fantastic; saving sharing and making this. Thank you!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Sep 27

      Hope you’ll love the Albondigas, thanks to you!

  20. Marcela Rhoden

    Aug 22

    These are delicious! I make them often and usually make a double batch for the freezer. They keep very well and are handy for a quick and yummy meatball sandwich. I put them in a crusty bolillo, with lots of sauce, top with queso Oaxaca and run under the broiler. Top with avocado slices and a drizzle of crema and YUMMY! A great way to repurpose leftovers! Thank you for promoting authentic Mexican cuisine and for showing the beautiful simplicity of real food.

    1. Pati Jinich

      Sep 12

      Wow, great idea, a Torta de Albondiga! Thanks so much for sharing your recipe Marcela 🙂

  21. Ron

    Aug 03

    I made this and used pure ground venison instead of turkey and served this over cauliflower rice .
    Thank you for all your recipes and love your cooking show.

    1. Pati Jinich

      Aug 14

      Ooohh that sounds interesting Ron, thanks for sharing and for the kind words!

  22. Amalia Hall

    Jun 21

    Can i sub the ground turkey?

    1. Pati Jinich

      Jul 03

      You can use ground beef if you like it better Amalia 🙂

  23. William Lyons

    May 21

    I tried this with a few modifications. I had a few frozen tomatillos, so I used a 14.5 Oz of diced tomatoes with them. I used veggie broth instead of chicken broth. Chicken broth always adds too much chicken flavor to other things. I used 1 lb IKEA frozen ‘plant balls’ a few dashes of Tajín & the cilantro sprigs. Which really brought it over the top!

    1. Pati Jinich

      May 23

      Sounds like a completely different recipe to me, haha, but very yummy! So glad you enjoyed the Guajillo sauce William 😉

  24. Shelley Newberry

    May 07

    Dear Pati, I love you and your show! It’s warm and informative, with beautiful scenery on your adventures and so great to see your sweet family. I’m a cook/baking junkie, as such I watch most cooking shows and search the internet for recipes [I’m retired]. I have to say that you come out on top of all for me in terms of cooking a great deal of your recipes. I do modify and make your recipes over and over again to hone them. And make you Tex Mex chili routinely.
    Now, as to this recipe. It’s a joy to make, I made half batch to see if I like it. This was my first time using tomatillos. I have to say I tried the sauce early and thought what a mistake it was so acidic, however, after cooking all the way through the recipe Is a real winner. Thanks for showing your great recipes that everyone can put on the table for all. Love you 😍

    1. Pati Jinich

      May 10

      Thanks so much Shelley for your very sweet message and kind words, SO glad you like my chili and the albondigas! That is the secret with cooking with tomatillos, give them their time and they will do their magic 😉

  25. jim and marlene golden

    May 05

    thank you for the recipe for the meatballs, took my time and it came out nice, ty again enjoy your show

    1. Pati Jinich

      May 10

      So happy you liked my Albondigas Jim and Marlene, thanks so much!

  26. Royce Solberg

    May 02

    Pati,

    I watched this Sunday, 2 May on KNPB channel 5 in Reno, Nevada. I have made Albondigas for MANY years. I have made the traditional Albondiga Soup. This is a most interesting recipe that I have NOT tried, so I’m going to give it a whirl to see what the reaction of my friends will be! They’re not expecting this one! I have a good Mexican Groceria around the corner, because up here in the high Sierra, it’s difficult to find some of the ingredients for a few other recipes I saw today, in our local Grocery stores. I’ll let you know what happens. Thanks for the tips for a great “Cinco de Mayo”.
    Gracias!
    Royce Solberg

    1. Pati Jinich

      May 07

      Good luck Royce, hopefully your friends will approves. I will be waiting for the review, thanks!

  27. Chandler Myers

    May 02

    This was a HIT in my house! This sauce is so complex. I will be making this sauce and it will be a staple. The only thing I was concerned with was it wasn’t as much of a deep rich color like yours. I think I’m going to increase the chili and choose smaller tomatillos. I also had trouble finding the fresh epazote, which I knew would be an issue. I just subbed with cilantro. But it tasted so delicious And the found turkey was soooo tender and flavorful. Thank you Pati. Your show opens the eyes to the beautiful Mexican culture and intrigues the tongue to try something new.

    1. Pati Jinich

      May 07

      Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts about this recipe Chandler, so happy you liked the Albondigas and especially the sauce 😉

  28. Joleen

    May 01

    I am looking for the rice recipe that was featured with these meatballs on one of Pati’s TV episodes

    1. Pati Jinich

      May 07

      And here it is for you Joleen, it is Rice with Chepil, enjoy! http://patijinich.com/arroz-con-chepil/

  29. John Thornton

    May 01

    I saw this recipe on your CreateTV marathon last night and am planning to try this for 5 de mayo! Love your show with all the onsite interviews with chefs in Mexico and other places!

    1. Pati Jinich

      May 07

      Thanks so much for tuning in John, so glad you have been enjoying the show 😉

  30. Julieta Pontecorvo

    Apr 25

    I made this the other day and it was
    Delicious! I’ve tried some other
    recipes of yours and they are all excellent and delicious.

    Thank You 🙏🏼 🥰 So Much

    1. Pati Jinich

      Apr 25

      So glad to read this Julieta, thanks to you for your kindness 😉

  31. Nancy S.

    Jan 28

    I’m in love with this recipe! We usually have sauce left over so this time, I made soup out of it! I sautéed diced onions, garlic and zucchini then added the leftover sauce thinned out with stock and threw in black beans, corn and diced chicken breast. Served it with fresh cilantro on the top. Thank you so much for this recipe. Oh, and I also make meatball subs out of these too!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Feb 01

      Wow, nice recipe for the left overs Nancy, thanks for sharing 😉

  32. Monica

    Jan 27

    I love this recipe! It has become a regular at my house
    Thank you for your delicious recipes!!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Jan 31

      Yay Monica! So glad your family enjoys the Albondigas 😉

  33. Susan Pasagic

    Jan 01

    Hi Pati, I just have to say that I am in love with this recipe! We are in Queensland Australia and really love your show. We experimented after having the meatballs and used chicken thighs and it was equally as yummy! We are now addicted to real Mexican food because of your show and plan to travel there one day when the world settles down. Cant wait to see what you cook next! x

    1. Pati Jinich

      Jan 06

      So glad you liked the Albondigas Susan and that you decided to use the Guajillo sauce with other protein, yay, great idea! Please visit Mexico when it is safe again, it is truly an amazing country. Un abrazo to Queensland 😉

  34. Jesus

    Dec 24

    Hi Pati I saw your show a few weeks ago on PBS and made these meatballs. They were so delicious my son asked me to prepare them again for Christmas. Thanks

    1. Pati Jinich

      Jan 06

      SO glad you guys enjoyed these albondigas Jesus, un abrazo a los dos!

  35. Sandy Mestas

    Nov 05

    what season was this recipe on ? would like to see u make it, thank you!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Nov 06

      Hey Sandy, this recipe is from Season 6 Episode 605: Del Pueblo a la Ciudad. You can find season 6 on Amazon Prime, and some times they have re runs on your local PBS; check this tracking tool with your zip code 😉 http://www.tracmedia.com/LOL/PatisMexicanTable2/

  36. Kirsten

    Oct 31

    I just watched your show and can not wait to make these for my family. I wanted to make the rice as well but can’t seem to find the recipe? I forgot the name of it. Could you guide me to it? I absolutely love watching your show. Thank you for opening your home to us to share in your love of Mexican cooking.

    1. Pati Jinich

      Nov 03

      Thanks Kirsten for the kind words. It is called Arroz con Chepil and here is the recipe for you, enjoy! http://patijinich.com/pati_2020/arroz-con-chepil/

  37. Perez

    Oct 16

    I made this last night after watching it on your show and it is delicious! My picky eater ate it! Mis hijas 5, 3, and 1 love watching your show and trying your recipes. Muchas gracias por las buenas ideas y consejos en la cocina. I have learned to cook many things thanks to you.

    1. Pati Jinich

      Oct 22

      Yay, que alegria que las chicas disfrutaran estas albondigas 😉 Abrazos a todos!

  38. Scott

    Oct 03

    I made this recipe after seeing it on your show and it came out great! The ground turkey has a delicate texture and flavor that really goes well with the delicious guajillo sauce.

    One question for you Pati: I used dried guajillo chiles that were available at my local grocer. Even after simmering for 15 minutes in water the skins were still pretty tough. I blended them quite well in the blender but I still had some small flakes of tough chile skin in the finished product. Should I blend the chile/tomatillo mixture longer or is this just a feature of making sauce from dried chiles?

    Love your show!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Oct 04

      Thanks for reaching out Scott! Dry guajillos take time to re hydrate, but if your toasted them before simmering they should be OK, maybe just blend a little longer? Enjoy!

  39. John

    Oct 03

    Akk! You didn’t mention to scrub the tomatillos prior to cooking. Made the recipe, it came out bitter! Googled it and found I had to remove the sticky residue on the tomatillos with soap, water and then vinegar!

    Need to let us know these things ahead of time. Had to toss the sauce.

    1. Pati Jinich

      Oct 04

      Good point John, I will try to be more thorough in my recipes, although I never wash my tomatillos in vinegar, so probably the problem is that they were not so fresh and therefore bitter from the beginning 🙁

  40. Robin

    Sep 30

    Just found your show on our local PBS station and love it! It was the Albondigas with guajillo sauce. I will try it tonight with grassfed beef! I expect it to fabulous! Now, my question….do you have a segment that talks about all the different types of dried peppers and their uses?? I have seen Arbil, pasilla, ancho, guajillo (and maybe more?). I would love to start exploring them but need a primer first. Thanks in advance!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Oct 04

      Hi Robin, so glad to read you are interested in chiles! I have this blog entry to get you started with it, hope it is useful! http://patijinich.com/pati_2020/category/ingredients/chiles/

  41. Susan

    Sep 27

    Made exactly to recipe. Excellent flavor depth. I simmered a bit longer for a thicker sauce and for meatballs to absorb more flavor. Another poster said that she made the day before and that may have the same effect.

    1. Pati Jinich

      Sep 29

      Glad you liked these Albondigas Susan!

  42. Oday Salim

    Sep 21

    Yours is the very best cooking show on earth! I loved this dish. Thanks for striking a perfect balance between Mexican recipes and culture.

    1. Pati Jinich

      Sep 24

      You are way too kind Oday, thanks so much!

  43. SuziQ

    Sep 20

    Would like the white rice recipe you make to go with this dish. I can’t seem to find it. 😩

    1. Pati Jinich

      Sep 24

      Of course Suzi, is called Arroz con Chepil, here you go, enjoy 😉 http://patijinich.com/pati_2020/arroz-con-chepil/

  44. Paul Salapatas

    Sep 18

    This sounds mouth watering! Can’t wait to dive into this recipe! Thanks Pati!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Oct 04

      Hope you liked it Paul 😉

  45. Peter J

    Sep 08

    This recipe is fabulous, fun to execute and serve, easily modified and a crowd pleaser. I’ve used ground beef in place of turkey and have substituted tomatoes from garden for half of the tomatillos. I’ve even increased the number of guajillos to 8. All turned out as wonderful as the original. Pati, thank you for making this recipe available. One of my favorite recipes and a definite five star.

    1. Pati Jinich

      Sep 17

      Gracias Peter! So glad you liked my Albondigas 😉

  46. Rebekah

    Aug 30

    Pati, these were superb! You encouraged me to try cooking with dried chilis. Thank you! I’ve watched you cook with these for a few years now, and I finally decided to try it for myself! These meatballs were so tender, and this sauce was unique and full of flavor! I made it for company, and they loved them! I served them with your arroz con chepil! I made them the night before, and they tasted even better the next day! I will definitely be making these again. Not difficult to make either!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Sep 05

      Rebekah, yay! These meatballs are amazing, I am so glad to read your friends enjoyed them!

  47. Michael C.

    Jul 10

    Hi Pati – I love your show and recipes!! You’ve taught me so much about the country I consider my home away from home. I’m planning to make this for a dinner party tomorrow and can’t find fresh guajillo chiles. Can I use dried guajillo chiles and follow the recipe as written or do you recommend a substitute for the guajillo chiles (e.g. Pasilla)?

    1. Pati Jinich

      Jul 12

      Yes Michael, actually I made this recipe with dried Guajillos! If at some point you don’t have any kind of Guajillos, is much better to substitute with Anchos than with Pasillas, have fun!

  48. Denice Garberina

    Jul 02

    Pati, this is my second time making your meatballs in guajillo sauce and I am attempting a double recipe. Actually I’m Italian descent and my mother has always made homemade gravy but we’re never able to double it unless cutting down on the liquid. My first Venture with your authentic recipe with absolutely scrumptious and I have watched you on your video do it especially on the create channel. I’m wondering if cutting down a little of the liquid make sense to you as well because when you double things there’s always a little too much liquid. I so adore you your family and your recipes!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Jul 05

      Hi Denice, thanks so much for your message. Love that you love these meatballs, yay! To be honest, I would not reduce the liquid at all, if anything, just let them simmer a bit longer to reduce the sauce, or just enjoy the extra! If you serve your meatballs with rice, a bit of sauce on top will make it extra yummy! Enjoy 😉

  49. Coral Lopez

    May 14

    Hola Patty Buenas noches !
    Viendo la televisión este domingo, vi tu receta de estas deliciosas albóndigas, nunca las he hecho me las antojaste así que ya tengo los ingredientes y mañana las prepararé. Crees que sea buena idea ponerle un polideportivo cilantro picado a la carne ?
    Gracias por compartir tus deliciosas recetas con nosotros tus seguidores, saludos y bendiciones.

    1. Pati Jinich

      May 16

      Claro Coral, si les gusta el cilantro es perfecto. Gracias y saludos 😉

  50. Paige

    Mar 19

    Good afternoon Mrs. Jinich,
    Can I just say, WOW! Not like you didn’t already know this, but this is absolutely amazing. I stumbled across this recipe while looking for a recipe for salsa and I am so happy that I did. Thank you so much for sharing this recipe!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Mar 20

      So happy you liked my “Albondigas” Paige, the sauce is absolutely one of my favorites. Hugs 🙂

  51. Rudy R

    Feb 05

    Question, can you substitute Guajillo powder for the chili. My Tia gave me a canister of powder and I’d like to use it. Thank you for your wonderful easy directions.

    1. Pati Jinich

      Feb 05

      Guajillo has a very unique flavor that goes perfect with meatballs, but by all means go ahead and use the Chili Rudy! Let me know how it turns out 🙂

  52. Louis Cuevas

    Feb 05

    Thank you Pati. Mi esposa made me some and it was delicious.

    1. Pati Jinich

      Feb 05

      Thanks for sharing Louis!

  53. JohnV

    Dec 19

    I made this last night according to the recipe, except for using ground pork instead of ground turkey. Delicious, and the guajillo sauce was mild enough that even my wife liked it! Great balance and flavors. Thank you, Pati!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Dec 19

      Super! I hope you guys enjoy many more recipes.

  54. RandiK

    Sep 24

    I loved the idea of a turkey meatball with Mexican flavors rather than Italian. I followed the recipe exactly the first time to get a baseline. The sauce is delicious. I think I would strain it next time because I did not love the texture of the chilis (even after pureeing, I had some bits in it). My meatballs needed a boost. Next time, I will start with dark meat ground turkey (more flavor than white meat), use a panade (breadcrumbs soaked in milk), omit the egg and add some cotija cheese into meatlballs. I’ll also add some additional spices (Mexican oregano, garlic powder). Instead of cooking this on the stove, I’ll pop it into an oven to finish cooking after I add the meatballs to the sauce. Still feel so lucky to have Pati’s wonderful recipes!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Sep 30

      I’m so glad you will make the recipe your own, Randi!

  55. Pat

    Sep 12

    This recipe is a real winner! Once you have all of the ingredients it is very easy to make. I made it tonight for dinner and my husband and I both loved it. It was hard to stop eating. Thanks for all the delicious recipes. Love your show.

    1. Pati Jinich

      Sep 13

      Thank you for tuning in and for giving the recipes a try, Pat!

  56. Steven Harrison

    Sep 11

    Hello Patti!!!
    We just saw your episode with the albondigas and chepil rice!!! It looks delicious and we’re going to make it soon! We can’t wait to try it!!!
    I’m not sure we can find Chepil so we’ll try watercress as I’m reading below!
    Most of all, I want to thank you for your humility and your humanity. Your lovely, kind nature. Your passion for food and family. Your kind and loving spirit. There’s something so beautifully genuine that jumps off the TV screen. You are more than just a TV cook/host/personality. You are a very special human being with a big heart and kind soul. I’m so happy for your success and so grateful to share these delicious dishes with my friends and family.
    Muchisimas Gracias!!!
    Esteban

    1. Pati Jinich

      Sep 12

      Aw thank you so much, Esteban! 💕

    2. Ali B

      Sep 29

      Pati! We made these last night and it was one of those times you eat something and you can’t believe you made it – it tasted as good as our favorite family-owned Mexican restaurant (maybe better:) Thank you for sharing your love of cooking and your love of life.

      1. Pati Jinich

        Oct 04

        Thanks so much Ali, love to read you enjoyed my Albondigas 😉

  57. Michael Delgado

    Sep 09

    Hola,
    I made this sauce last night and it was very tasteful, and everyone enjoyed the albondigas.
    I have watched your TV episode for this recipe and the sauce that you made looked very thick, and your son commented that it tasted like “BBQ sauce”. So I was surprised then, that my sauce when it was finished it looked very runny, yours looked thick! did you add corn starch to thicken ?
    Michael Delgado

    1. Pati Jinich

      Oct 03

      That’s great that everyone enjoyed the albondigas, Michael! It sounds like you needed to cook the sauce a little longer to get it thicker.

  58. Edith Castorena

    Aug 26

    Love this recipe along with the Rice Chepil! I have to confess-I swapped out the ground turkey for half ground pork and half ground beef(como mi abuelita) and they were delicious. My son, daughter and her boyfriend devoured all of the albondigas! I had been hoping to have a bit leftover for lunch the next day, but no!
    I couldn’t find chepil in my local latinoamericana market in SF, so I substituted watercress as you suggested-yum! And I don’t particularly like watercress, but in this dish with the serrano pepper, it is just fabulous! Thank you for your wonderful recipe-I have been looking for recipes like yours to help keep my heritage and that of my children alive.

    1. Pati Jinich

      Aug 27

      💕

  59. Gil Hernandez

    Aug 08

    First, I love your show in so many ways but in particular the way you showcase Mexican culture so lovingly and your family being part of it all makes so much sense. I watch when its on in the morning and then often make a dish. In fact, today I watched and am now making the Chickpea and cucumber salad for dinner.
    I made this meatball dish and it was a big hit – the flavors so outstanding! I loved the sauce so much I used it to make a guisado of pork ribs. I added zucchini and corn on the cob cut into small rounds also. I took the dish to my family reunion and everyone loved it. My aunt who lives in Mexico half the year asked for the recipe. This is a major compliment. Gracias por todo Pati – Saludos!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Aug 12

      Oh that is a huge compliment…thank you so much, Gil!

  60. Stewart, in Arlington VA

    Jul 13

    Hi Pati,

    I discovered your show recently, and I’ve been watching old seasons on demand. Originally I mostly liked your take on culture, and, enjoyed the places and people you visit and cook with. When I saw this recipe, I thought I’d try it. It was very easy and very tasty. I made it as written, except I added 2-3 tbsp of sugar to balance the flavors of the sauce. I like tomatillos but I rarely cook with them. I’m glad I made this recipe. I really like that your recipes are a Mexican, and not New Mexican, or, Tex Mex. I’m learning a lot.

    Looking forward to the new season, and watching the old seasons I haven’t gotten to yet. Why are season 1 and 2 not On Demand?

    1. Pati Jinich

      Jul 15

      Thank you so much, Stewart. And I hope you love the new season!

  61. Joel Clark

    Jul 09

    Absolutely outstanding. I made this with ground pork and the flavor of the sauce was amazing.

    Anytime I used dries chilies, seems the flavor is always remarkable.

    1. Pati Jinich

      Jul 09

      I love dried chiles…and I’m so glad you do too, Joel.

  62. Denice Garberina

    Jun 16

    I made this recipe for the first time with no mistakes it was so delicious my son my nephew and a good friend of mine lapped it up over a bed of rice didn’t last at all. Easy to make and I have a whole bag of guahillo peppers on hand at all times now. I love all of your recipes Pati!! I thank you!!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Jun 18

      I love that you now have a bag of guajillos on hand, Denice!

  63. Shelby R.

    May 21

    I have made these before and am craving it again tonight. I am so excited to gobble these up and I know my kids will too. This recipe comes together beautifully and disappears quickly. Thank you again Pati, for another great tasting recipe!

    1. Pati Jinich

      May 23

      Oh it disappears quickly in my kitchen too, Shelby 😉

  64. 1chesh

    Apr 09

    I made these meatballs and the flavor is an explosion of deliciousness! I’ve never cooked with these chili’s before. The combination of tanginess of the tomatillos with the subtle mild chicken broth blended so beautifully! I LOVE watching your show. You give me the courage to try some different recipes in the kitchen. Keep making our mouths water watching you cook!
    Muchisimas gracias!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Apr 13

      I hope you keep trying lots of recipes…and have lots of fun kitchen adventures!

  65. Angie Cano

    Feb 17

    Hola Pati

    I tried this recipe, my version of it at least.
    I did it with chicken thighs and OMG it was delicious… it took me a little to find the ingredients but u did it. Proud of my improved Mexican cooking skills that’s to you.
    Gracias Pati, me diviertes mucho & I love love love love Mexican kitchen (I am Colombian by the way, no spices at all and no Chile’s for sure)

    1. Pati

      Feb 19

      Mil gracias, Angie!

  66. Sylvia Renard

    Feb 08

    I made this recipe along with the Chepil Rice – except I didn’t use Chepil leaves. I wouldn’t know where to find this so I used cilantro. My 17 year old son, Christopher, loved the meatballs in the guajillo sauce. The rice served on the side absorbed some of the guajillo sauce and the whole meal was super delicious! I will definitely be adding this combo, permanently, to my repertoire.

    Side note: Thank you for sharing your love of Mexico, the many delicious recipes, and your beautiful sons. The episode where you are sharing a few cooking tips with your son because he will be heading off to college was simply precious!! I was deeply moved. You are such a lovely person, Pati – I thoroughly enjoy every episode. Hugs and blessings,

    1. Pati

      Feb 14

      Oh thank you so much Sylvia!!!

  67. E. Roxana

    Jan 28

    Can I use red tomatoes if I don’t have tomatillos at hand.

    1. Pati

      Jan 30

      Sure…It will be a different taste but also delicious​.

  68. FELICIA THAYER

    Jan 21

    I am about to make this, but I only have a little over 1 pound of tomatillos. Will it still work?

    1. Pati

      Jan 21

      Sure! I would just half the whole recipe to, so everything is still in proportion.

  69. Loren

    Nov 03

    I had left over Checken Brest pieces, so I cut them into bites and poached them in seasoned water…used this amazing sauce as a drizzle over Chicken burritos!! It was a HIT!!!

    Love your show, your recipes…I’ve learned so much about authentic Mexican Cuisine…and your sweet love for and within your family warms my heart!! You and your husband have raised 3 amazing young men!!!

    God Speed Patti!!!

    Much love, Loren

    1. Pati

      Nov 05

      Sounds yum, Loren! And thank you so much 🙏

  70. Elizabeth

    Nov 02

    Pati this is the best flavor I’ve had in awhile so I Am going to try it mixed into my chili

    1. Pati

      Nov 02

      Oh I hope your chili comes out great, Elizabeth!

  71. thomas and shelley josephson

    Oct 20

    me and my wife made your recipe and it was the best, there was plenty of sauce left so I added another cup of rice and a pound of ground beef and now we are going to have Guajillo soup tomorrow. thank you for sharing your recipe !

    1. Pati

      Oct 22

      Oh great use of the leftovers, Thomas and Shelley!

  72. Steven W. Birkeland

    Sep 16

    I have made these a couple times. They are amazing and so delicious. I make the rice but have to substitute baby watercress and a tiny bit of mint. It is amazing also. Thank you for amazing recipes. My wife loves your bracelet also.

    1. Pati

      Oct 03

      Oh say hi to your wife for me, Steven…and I hope you are having lots of fun kitchen adventures.

  73. ed danials

    Aug 02

    hola Pati. mucho gusto sometimes it is so sad not finding ingredients for the recipes even though there are about 100,000 Mexicans here which most are illegal, and only two supermarkets that have Latino products,I have lived from San Diego to Arizona ,Texas and now her in Florida and always loved ,sometimes craved Mexican food, I love it so mucho and I like watching you on television ,you are so fun. keep up the good work, via con Dios

    1. Pati

      Aug 02

      Thanks so much for watching my show Ed. It can be frustrating to not find the ingredients, but the great thing is that they are becoming increasingly available. Talk to your grocers and request the items, the more they hear that their customers want them, the more they will source them!

  74. Sulaiman

    Jun 23

    Fantastic. Have seen and tried meatballs from all over the world except this.
    Dinner tonight!

    1. Pati

      Jun 24

      Oh I hope you love these Mexican meatballs!

  75. Lilia Keller

    Jun 11

    Where can I buy a beautiful comal like yours?

    1. Pati

      Jun 13

      Oh mine is passed down from my mom…but you can find them all sorts of places, like online, your local kitchen store, Latin Market…and Mexico!

  76. andreaweissenburger@live.com

    Jun 03

    Wow!

    Love these! Tender meatballs and the wonderful sauce. I added a tablespoon of brown sugar to manage the sour. It sent it over the top!

    1. Pati

      Jun 05

      So glad you made the recipe your own, Andrea!

  77. Travis Travieso

    Jun 02

    Which Season and Episode did you make this in? I’m making it for the 2nd time (BIG hit the 1st time) and I’d love to watch you on Amazon while I do it.

    1. Pati

      Jun 05

      Season six, episode 5…and I’m so glad they were a hit, Travis!

  78. Doug

    May 11

    The sauce was delicious. I did have to substitute ancho chilies because I could not get the guajillos locally. When I served it, some of the meatballs did fall apart, but I didn’t mind that- it made for a nice meaty sauce. We served it on rice, but I was kinda wondering if it would be good with spaghetti or linguini.

    1. Pati

      May 14

      Go for it! I hope you enjoy your Mexican spaghetti and meatballs, Doug.

  79. Rick

    May 03

    Love the flavor of the sauce but I had to add a couple of tablespoons of sugar as it was so sour.

    1. Pati

      May 04

      I’m glad you were able to adjust it to your taste Rick, and that you enjoyed it 🙂

  80. Mark LeBahn

    Apr 17

    Pati. Me again. 😊. Love your show.
    Can I find epazote at a Mexican market? Is it seasonal? Really want to make it like you did

    1. Pati

      Apr 18

      You should be able to find it! Good luck.

    2. Edith Castorena

      Aug 26

      Sometimes you can find it dried at a good Latinoamericana markets-some carry it fresh in their produce section, too!

  81. Maria Wetzel

    Apr 16

    Hi Patti, unfortunately I didn’t finish watching this episode. How do you accompany this delicious Guajillo Meatballs plate? Arroz blanco? tell me, please =-)

    1. Pati

      Apr 17

      I paired the meatballs with Arroz con Chepil: http://patijinich.com/pati_2020/recipe/arroz-con-chepil/

  82. Pamela Craig

    Mar 11

    I know it pretty much ignores the whole meatball idea, but do you think cooking chicken breast in the sauce and then shredding it would work? Or would you put the shredded chicken in already cooked? Kind of like your chicken tinga? Thanks for your thoughts.

    1. Pati

      Mar 16

      Chicken would be great too! ​Exactly, cook and shred the chicken and finish it in the sauce.​

  83. Teresa

    Mar 08

    Hi Pati! Do you have to use guajillo chiles or can other types of chiles be used like Colorado? I can’t wait to try this recipe. I love your show! Thanks!

    1. Pati

      Mar 09

      Oh I also have a recipe that uses chipotle chiles….http://patijinich.com/pati_2020/recipe/meatballs-in-chipotle-sauce/

  84. Ana

    Feb 20

    Hi patti is the broth needed. Or can i put a lil bit of water in it .want to try them with ground beef ? Looked really delicious

    1. Pati

      Feb 22

      Of course you can try them with ground beef! Any ground protein will do. You can sub water for broth, but broth will help it have a bit more depth of flavor​.

  85. leslye borden

    Feb 12

    Delicious recipe. Worth the time and effort of making it. I would cut the recipe in half next time since we are only two people eating this.

    1. Pati

      Feb 12

      They freeze well too… 🙂

  86. Jackie Alberto

    Feb 05

    I made this recipe of yours on Saturday along with your Chepil Rice. I posted my completed food on FB and had alot of people saying they were coming over! Nobody made it, but there is still tonight. I love, love, love your programs.

    Thank you

    1. Pati

      Feb 06

      That’s awesome! Thank you for tuning in and for trying some recipes Jackie!

  87. Marty Torres

    Jan 19

    It was good only I had to add baking soda due to acid taste. Do you know what I did wrong

    1. Pati

      Jan 31

      ​Hi Marty! There is supposed to be an acid taste because tomatillos are acid. But they shouldn’t be overwhelmingly acid, if they are, that means that they were either unripe or past their prime. ​

  88. Juliann

    Jan 19

    i wish that i could spend a day with you cooking and visiting, your recipes ALWAYS turn out. The ingredients are easy to find here in OK and that makes a big difference. You are so fun to watch and my husband and i enjoy your show every chance that we get. Best wishes for a future that is as sunny as you!

    1. Pati

      Jan 19

      I’m so happy to hear that the recipes always turn out and the ingredients are easy for you to find Juliann! I hope you continue to enjoy the show and new recipes!

  89. Lynda Sanders

    Jan 17

    what was the rice you made with these on your show?

  90. Robert and vicki pait

    Jan 17

    my wife and i are in the process of making this recipe and we are using ground vinison
    smells very good in our home.Also we love your show.

    1. Pati

      Jan 18

      Yum!

  91. Virginia Lopez

    Jan 16

    Hi Patti….where does one find guallio dried chili’s and espizote? I live on Whidbey Island, WA. We are heading off to the mainland tomorrow and I only know of a couple of Mexican stores in Mt. Vernon. I know you said you can substitute w/cilantro and oh, and I can easily find Ancho dried chili’s. Also, do you suggest long grain or pearl rice.

    1. Pati

      Jan 18

      Try your local latin or international market…or even online for the dried chiles. It depends on the dish but for the rice I make with these meatballs (Arroz con Chepil) I recommend long grain rice. Have fun on the mainland!

  92. Hugh Balsam

    Jan 03

    Sauce came out very nicely. I thought the meatballs were hard, however. If I made again, I would use beef instead of turkey breast. Or maybe just plain ground turkey with more fat in it. But the recipe taught me a valuable new technique — cooking with dried peppers and tomatillos. Thanks!

    1. Pati

      Jan 03

      I’m so glad you learned a new technique!

    2. Diana Handros

      Feb 24

      Hi Hugh, I made this last month and the meatballs were very tender. You may have worked the meat too much. I would try it again with turkey but work the meat as little as possible. Good luck!
      Pati, I love this recipe and want to make a large batch to take to work for 33 people next time we have a pot luck 🙂

      1. Pati

        Feb 26

        I hope your co-workers enjoy the meatballs at the pot luck, Dianna!

  93. Al Miller

    Jan 02

    Hey Pati: In a word, Delicious! Took a bit to round up the ingredients in northeast Ohio, but well worth the effort! And the complimentary chepil (we used cilantro) rice dish completed the meal. Great show! Thanks

    1. Pati

      Jan 02

      I’m so glad it was worth the effort Al!

  94. Patrick Kelly

    Dec 27

    Hi Pati: Here is something to try? After we ate the meat balls, there was a nice amount of sauce left, so my wife took a 7.05 La Moderna Vermicelli Pasta noodles, boiled them, and than mixed with the sauce! Try it, it’s VERY good and filling! Take care, and Happy New Years.

    1. Pati

      Dec 27

      Yum!

  95. Ida

    Dec 23

    Hola Pati,
    Que orgullo aprender de tus deliciousas recetas! Eres una inspiracion al conocer la autentica cocina Mexicana. Muchisimas Gracias! Esta receta deliciousa, mi Esposo facinado con todos los diferentes sabores. Delish! Sige dandonos mas!! Ole!

    1. Pati

      Jan 04

      Mil gracias Ida!

  96. Patrick Kelly

    Dec 22

    Hello Pati! We watched all your episodes and this is the first one we made! Just finished, and it was VERY good, and filling. Keep up the good work, and we really enjoy watching your shows! Merry Christmas! Patrick & Denise Kelly

    1. Pati

      Dec 22

      I’m so happy that you liked your first recipe! Have a wonderful New Year filled with Mexican food!

  97. ed naimon

    Dec 17

    Hi, Pati.

    Rather than meatballs, would chicken thighs be appropriate? I assume they’d be cooked in the sauce for about the same amount of time. Please advise. Thank you.

    1. Pati

      Dec 22

      Oh give them a try!

  98. Linda Masson

    Dec 11

    I made this recipe for a family birthday. 2 batches, one with ground beef, one with turkey. I was a little concerned about the spicyness of the dried Chiles. I got 2 brands of the same type Chile. Surprisingly, one was bland and the other was so spicy I used 4 instead of 6 pods. The dish was a hit. I like the tartness the tomatillos give the sauce and will use them more often now. I also made the chapil rice, although I couldn’t find the herb. I used the left over sauce and meatballs to make a vegetable, bean soup. Thanks Pati. I love your show.

    1. Pati

      Dec 15

      I’m so glad to hear it was a hit!

  99. Yong

    Dec 06

    When is the broth added?

    1. Pati

      Dec 07

      Add the broth once the tomatillo puree has cooked down and before you put in the meatballs.

  100. Veronica

    Nov 17

    Hola pati.. Estoy haciendo tu recta deliciosa pero en la preparación no veo dónde se agrega el chicken both ??

    1. Pati

      Dec 01

      ​Hola! Se agrega el caldo como 7 u 8 minutos después de que el pure de tomatillo se halla guisado y espesado un poquito. ​

  101. Veronica

    Nov 13

    Hola pati!! Puedo hacer estas albóndigas de carne molida o pollo en vez de pavo?? Saludos, gracias!

    1. Pati

      Nov 15

      Sí!

  102. Gregoria

    Oct 28

    I made this recipe last Sunday and my family loved it. It’s easy to make. I actually strained the sauce before adding to the meatballs to make it silkier. Thanks Pati for such flavorful and delicious recipes!!

    1. Pati

      Oct 30

      I’m glad the whole family loved it!

  103. Ernestina

    Oct 21

    I tried this for my Weight Watchers meeting and it was a hit. Busco recetas con menos calorías y esta receta es perfecta. Gracias

    1. Pati

      Oct 25

      I’m so happy they were a hit!

  104. Deahna

    Oct 19

    Yummmmmm!
    This is going to be dinner for our family tomorrow. I let my kids stay up 30 extra minutes tonight and they cuddled up next to me to watch your show with me.
    What a treat that was to watch with my kiddos, we loved your show. We homeschool so this is going to be incorporated into tomorrow’s lessons.
    I’m glad I stumbled upon your cooking show. Thanks!

    1. Pati

      Oct 25

      I’m so glad you stumbled on the show too…and I’m happy that the recipe will part of your lesson and that the show is part of family time!

  105. Martha Munguia

    Oct 19

    wonderful dish!!! We had this today and can’t wait to make it again along with the rice and salad. Thank you for the recipe! the ground turkey and guajillo Chile was flavorful and spicy. recommend for every one.

    1. Pati

      Oct 25

      Thank you Martha!

  106. Maria Rivas

    Oct 17

    Hello Pati. I just finished cooking the meatballs and the sauce is delicious. Haven’t tasted the meatballs since I don’t like turkey at all but my family does. I added cilantro instead of epazote and a teaspoon of chicken bouillon. Next time I will make them with ground beef. Thanks for sharing your recipes.

    1. Pati

      Oct 20

      Thank YOU for trying them Maria!

  107. Lee

    Oct 15

    Can you use tomatoes instead of tomatillos

    1. Pati

      Oct 31

      ​Absolutely! It will be a different taste but also delicious​.

  108. Lupita

    Oct 13

    I’ve made albondigas forever but these almost came apart without the rice to bind. I might still use rice instead of egg to bind them and a little of the guajillo sauce in the meat so they don’t look to white when you cut them. Thank you it was delicious, I’ve almost forgotten how to make the guajillo sauce. Thank you

    1. Pati

      Oct 30

      I like to use egg as a binder…but please make the recipe your own. And I’m glad you enjoyed the guajilllo sauce!

  109. Mark Cashiers, NC

    Oct 13

    Hi Pati!
    I made these meatballs last night. They were amazing!! I substituted some fresh venison, and added 3 extra garlic cloves. The ground venison and spicy sauce complimented eachother soooo well.

    My wife is Mexican, from Guanajuato, and we absolutely love your show. We both share a passion for cooking, and I’m sure this was just the first of many of your recipes that We’ll try together. We’re planning to make the Almond Chocolate Leche Cake, tomorrow…. We’ll let You know how it turns out

    1. Pati

      Oct 20

      Oh the venison sounds like a yummy substitute. And I hope you and your wife enjoyed the cake!

  110. Carol Fierro

    Oct 10

    This is a must try…..will be making this for the weekend

    1. Pati

      Oct 12

      Super!

  111. catheleen

    Oct 09

    im sorry ms. patti, u lost me at ground turkey– could i substitute with another kind of meat? i luv meatballs and ur chile

    1. Pati

      Oct 12

      Sure! You can use your preferred ground meat…and let me know how it goes.

  112. Flower Cantarero

    Oct 08

    Delicious and with lots a flavor.

    1. Pati

      Oct 12

      🙂

  113. mari Alvarez

    Oct 07

    We saw your cooking meat balls, and they look so good, so I printed your recipe, but I must ask you what is epazote? I sort of miss that, again thank you so much for all the recipes that you share.

    1. Pati

      Oct 12

      Epazote is a type of herb…http://patijinich.com/pati_2020/epazote/ but you can substitute it with cilantro sprigs.

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