Sweet Soy Five Spice Recipe

Cook the Brown Rice

Rinse 1 cup of brown rice under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 40-45 minutes, or until rice is tender and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Mix Turkey Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine 1 pound of ground turkey, 1 egg, 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions or red onions, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1/2 teaspoon five spice powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.

Form and Cook Meatballs

Using your hands or a scoop, form the turkey mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).

Cook the Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1/4 cup water, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon five spice powder, and 1 teaspoon cornstarch. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.

Blanch Green Beans

Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 cup of trimmed green beans and cook for 2-3 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender. Drain and immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking. Drain and set aside.

Sauté Red Onions

In a medium skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add 1/2 cup of thinly sliced red onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and lightly caramelized. Set aside.

Place a portion of cooked brown rice onto each serving plate. Top with turkey meatballs, green beans, and sautéed red onions. Drizzle with the sweet soy five spice sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds and serve hot.