Spicy Mediterranean Lamb Meatballs

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Diana Opoti (@dianaopotieats)

A flavorful dish of spiced lamb meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce, perfect for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Spicy Mediterranean Lamb Meatballs recipe
Prep Time
40min
Cook Time
35min
Total Time
1hr 15min

Ingredients

3 Servings
(1 serving = approximately 4 meatballs with sauce)

For the Meatballs

  • lamb mince
    lamb mince
    350g
  • egg yolks
    egg yolks
    2
  • panko breadcrumbs
    panko breadcrumbs
    2tbsp
  • large yellow onion, grated
    large yellow onion, grated
    1
  • cumin powder
    cumin powder
    1tsp
  • paprika powder
    paprika powder
    1tsp
  • Salt to taste
    Salt to taste
  • olive oil
    olive oil
    2tbsp
  • chopped coriander
    chopped coriander
    2tbsp

For the Tomato Sauce

  • medium-sized tomatoes, grated
    medium-sized tomatoes, grated
    4
  • onion, chopped
    onion, chopped
    1
  • garlic, grated
    garlic, grated
    3clove
  • grated ginger
    grated ginger
    1tsp
  • cumin powder
    cumin powder
    1tsp
  • cinnamon stick
    cinnamon stick
    1
  • oil
    oil
    2tbsp

How to make Spicy Mediterranean Lamb Meatballs

Make the Meatballs

  1. Step 1

    In a mixing bowl, combine lamb mince, egg yolks, breadcrumbs, grated onion, cumin powder, paprika, salt, and chopped coriander. Mix thoroughly.

    Step 1.1: In a mixing bowl, combine lamb mince, egg yolks, breadcrumbs, grated onion, cumin powder, paprika, salt, and chopped coriander
  2. Step 2

    Allow the mixture to marinate for 30 minutes.

  3. Step 3

    Shape the mixture into 12 meatballs.

    Step 1.1: Shape the mixture into 12 meatballs
  4. Step 4

    Heat olive oil in a pan and shallow fry the meatballs until browned on all sides.

    Step 1.1: Heat olive oil in a pan and shallow fry the meatballs until browned on all sides
  5. Step 5

    Transfer to a preheated oven and bake at 200°C for 10 minutes.

Cook the Sauce and Combine

  1. Step 1

    Heat oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.

  2. Step 2

    Stir in grated tomatoes, garlic, and ginger. Cook until softened.

  3. Step 3

    Blend the cooked mixture into a puree and return it to the pan.

  4. Step 4

    Add cumin powder and a cinnamon stick. Simmer the sauce on low heat for 5 minutes.

    Step 2.1: Add cumin powder and a cinnamon stick
  5. Step 5

    Gently place the meatballs in the sauce and spoon the sauce over them to coat.

    Step 2.1: Gently place the meatballs in the sauce and spoon the sauce over them to coat
  6. Step 6

    Cover the pan and simmer for 10 minutes.

  7. Step 7

    Serve with turmeric rice and a dollop of Greek yogurt (optional) for a complete meal.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

549.0kcal (27.45%)

Protein

34.5g (69%)

Carbs

12.8g (4.67%)

Sugars

0.5g (1%)

Healthy Fat

26.7g

Unhealthy Fat

5.3g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. For extra flavor, let the meatball mixture marinate longer if time permits.

FAQS

  1. How do I make spicy Mediterranean lamb meatballs from scratch?

    To make spicy Mediterranean lamb meatballs, start by mixing 350 g of lamb mince with 2 egg yolks, 2 tbsp of panko breadcrumbs, grated onion, cumin powder, paprika, salt, and chopped coriander. Allow the mixture to marinate for 30 minutes, then shape it into 12 meatballs. Brown the meatballs in olive oil, then bake them in a preheated oven at 200°C for 10 minutes. For the sauce, sauté chopped onion, then add grated tomatoes, garlic, and ginger. Blend the mixture, add spices, and simmer before adding the meatballs to coat them in the sauce.

  2. What are some good substitutions for lamb in this meatball recipe?

    If you're looking for substitutions for lamb in this spicy Mediterranean meatball recipe, you can use ground beef, turkey, or chicken as alternatives. For a vegetarian option, consider using lentils or chickpeas blended with breadcrumbs and spices to create a similar texture and flavor profile.

  3. How should I store leftover spicy Mediterranean lamb meatballs?

    To store leftover spicy Mediterranean lamb meatballs, let them cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, ensure they are heated through to an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F).

  4. What can I serve with spicy Mediterranean lamb meatballs for a complete meal?

    For a complete meal with spicy Mediterranean lamb meatballs, consider serving them with turmeric rice, which complements the flavors beautifully. You can also add a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess, a fresh salad, or warm pita bread to soak up the sauce.

  5. Is this spicy Mediterranean lamb meatball recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

    Yes, you can make this spicy Mediterranean lamb meatball recipe gluten-free by substituting the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.

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Diana Opoti

(@dianaopotieats)

Self taught cook making restaurant style food. ...

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