• 1 pound ground turkey – This lean protein serves as the foundation for our meatballs, offering a healthy alternative while still being flavorful.
• 1 large onion, chopped – Adds sweetness and depth to the meatballs, enhancing their overall flavor profile.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic brings a fragrant touch that complements both the meatballs and sauce.
• 1 scallion, chopped – Adds a fresh and mild onion flavor, perfect for balancing the rich flavor of the meatballs.
• 1 large egg – Acts as a binder to hold the meatballs together, ensuring they maintain their shape while baking.
• 3 tablespoons breadcrumbs – Provides texture and absorbs moisture, leading to perfectly tender meatballs.
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds – Adds a nutty flavor and a pleasant crunch to the meatballs.
• Fresh cilantro, chopped – Offers a burst of freshness and brightness, elevating the overall taste.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning to balance the flavors.
• Oil for baking – Used to grease the baking sheet, helping to achieve a lovely golden color.

For the sauce:

• 1 cup pineapple juice – The star of the sauce, providing sweetness and acidity, ensuring a delightful glaze.
• 4 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce – Adds umami and enhances the savory taste of the sauce.
• 4 tablespoons tomato paste – Contributes depth and richness to the sauce, balancing the sweetness from the pineapple.
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch – Used to thicken the sauce and create a syrupy consistency.
• 1 tablespoon molasses (not blackstrap) – Adds another layer of sweetness and helps to round out the flavors.
• 2 tablespoons honey – Sweetens the sauce, enhancing its flavor and giving it a beautiful gloss.
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional) – Introduces nutty flavor notes, enhancing the Asian-inspired theme of the dish.
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – Adds complexity and depth to the flavor profile.
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger – Provides warmth and spice, perfect for balancing the sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Strengthens the garlic flavor in the sauce, complementing the meatballs beautifully.
• 1 cup diced pineapple (fresh or canned) – Enhances the texture and freshness of the sauce, creating a pineapple-forward flavor.