Albondigas with Spicy Pepper Sauce

In blender, combine chiles, garlic, vinegar and 2 teaspoons salt. Purée until smooth then blend in 1/4 cup oil.

In a large bowl, combine onion, egg, paprika, remaining 2 teaspoons salt, black pepper, garlic powder, cayenne, and cumin. Mix in breadcrumbs and pork or lamb. Using about 1 tablespoon meat mixture for each, form 60 balls.

Add enough oil to cover bottom of a large frypan and heat over medium-high heat. Working in batches, fry meatballs for about 8 minutes, turning as needed, or until golden brown and just cooked through. Wipe out pan and heat fresh oil to cook each batch.

Using a slotted spoon, transfer meatballs to bowl and immediately toss with some sauce to coat. Transfer to a platter, sprinkle with thyme leaves and serve with toothpicks and more sauce.

Note: When tossing these while hot out of the pan, the sauce forms a nice glaze. The sauce can also be spooned onto a platter then topped with the meatballs and sprinkled with thyme.