When I was growing up there was very little money to go around. So my mom found creative ways to feed 3 hungry kids. I always found this recipe funny sounding but I understand now that the rice was added to make the meat go farther. Like a filler. But we loved them anyway! If you are looking for something different to do with hamburger meat this might be worth a try! It’s a great weeknight dish and simple to make. I think my mom got the recipe from a lady at church years ago, and we all know how well church ladies can cook! Just a quick note: this is the closest photo I could find that look like them, but this picture doesn’t show the rice and our sauce is thinner than this.
How did someone ever come up with this name? Well, the rice sticking out of the meatballs look like porcupine quills. Yes, they are funny looking but they tasted great to us as kids! I’m sure you can add things to personalize your recipe. I’m thinking some green chilies might be good!
Porcupine Meatballs
1 lb. hamburger meat
1 ½ C Minute Rice
1 egg
1 med. onion, chopped
2 ½ C. tomato juice ( or can of Campbell’s tomato soup undiluted)
2 Tbl sugar
1 tsp marjoram
Salt
Pepper
Combine meat and uncooked rice.
Add egg, onion, salt, pepper, marjoram and ½ C of the tomato juice (already mixed with the sugar)
Mix with hands and form into meatballs.
Place balls into skillet.
Pour remaining juice over meatballs.
Bring skillet to a boil.
Reduce heat and simmer covered 15 minutes, basting occasionally.
My Mom served them with mashed potatoes and green beans or with just a salad.
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