Ingredients :
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 pound bulk Italian sausage
- 2 ounces fresh goat cheese
- 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 whole cloves
- 1 whole star anise
- 1/2 cup dried figs, chopped
- 1/2 cup water
- Chopped fresh chives, optional
Directions :
- Preheat air fryer to 350°. In a large bowl, combine bread crumbs and egg. Add sausage; mix lightly but thoroughly. Divide into 18 portions. Shape each portion around 1/2 teaspoon cheese to cover completely. In batches, place meatballs on greased tray in air-fryer basket. Cook 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
- Meanwhile, for sauce, in a large saucepan, bring vinegar, sugar, cinnamon, cloves and star anise to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer 5 minutes. Discard cinnamon, cloves and star anise. Add figs; cook until softened, 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat; cool slightly. Transfer to a blender. Add 1/2 cup water; process until almost smooth. Serve with meatballs. If desired, top meatballs with chopped chives.
