(Gently braised in 7-Up brown sauce for extra flavor)

MEAT BALLS:

1 c. packaged coarse dry bread crumbs
1 (7 oz.) bottle 7-Up (use 1/2 c. in meat balls, remainder in gravy)
1 egg, slightly beaten
1 lb. lean ground beef
1/2 lb. lean ground pork
1/4 c. grated onion
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. pepper
1/4 tsp. allspice

GRAVY:

1/4 to 1/2 c. butter
1/4 c. all-purpose flour
Remainder of 7-Up (about 1/3 c.)
1 (7 oz.) bottle 7-Up
3/4 c. water
2 beef bouillon cubes
1/4 tsp. bottled browning sauce
1/4 tsp. Worcestershire sauce

In a large bowl, thoroughly combine all ingredients for meat balls. (It's easiest to use your hands). Shape mixture into balls 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Brown meat balls in butter in a large skillet. Cook just enough at one time to cover bottom of skillet; turn gently. Remove browned meat balls to a plate.

After all meat balls are browned, remove skillet from heat; pour off drippings. Measure 1/4 cup drippings, adding extra butter if necessary and pour back into skillet. Add flour and blend to make a smooth mixture. Gradually stir in 7-Up (remainder from meat balls plus another bottle) and water. Add bouillon cubes, browning sauce and Worcestershire sauce. Bring mixture to boiling point, stirring constantly. Add meat balls. Cover and cook over very low heat 30 to 40 minutes. Makes 6 to 8 servings.