Smoky Bourbon-Spiced Pumpkin Meatballs with Maple Chipotle Glaze

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground pork
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp bourbon
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 tbsp chipotle hot sauce

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, pumpkin puree, panko, onion, garlic, egg, bourbon, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
3. Shape mixture into 16 evenly sized meatballs and place on prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake meatballs for 20 minutes or until cooked through and golden.
5. While meatballs bake, combine maple syrup and chipotle hot sauce in a small saucepan. Heat over low heat until warmed and combined.
6. Remove meatballs from oven and brush with the maple chipotle glaze.
7. Return to oven for 5 more minutes until glaze is sticky and caramelized.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.