Lamb Meatballs Tomato Sauce (Printable version)

Tender lamb balls simmered in aromatic tomato sauce for a comforting and flavorful main dish.

# List of ingredients:

→ Meatballs

01 - 1.1 lb ground lamb
02 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1.4 oz fresh breadcrumbs
05 - 1 large egg
06 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
07 - 1 tsp ground cumin
08 - 1/2 tsp ground coriander
09 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
10 - 1/2 tsp salt
11 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
12 - 1 tbsp olive oil (for frying)

→ Tomato Sauce

13 - 2 tbsp olive oil
14 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
15 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
16 - 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
17 - 2 tbsp tomato paste
18 - 1 tsp dried oregano
19 - 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
20 - 1 tsp sugar
21 - 2/3 cup water
22 - Salt and pepper, to taste
23 - Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

# Directions:

01 - In a large bowl, gently combine ground lamb, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until just incorporated.
02 - Form the mixture into 16 to 20 walnut-sized meatballs, ensuring even portions.
03 - Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. In batches, brown meatballs on all sides for approximately 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
04 - In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons olive oil. Sauté chopped onion for 3 minutes until translucent, then add garlic and cook an additional minute.
05 - Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, cinnamon, sugar, and water. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
06 - Return the browned meatballs to the skillet. Cover and simmer gently for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until meatballs are cooked through and sauce has thickened.
07 - Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve immediately with pasta, rice, couscous, or bread.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The meatballs stay tender and juicy even after simmering, soaking up all that spiced tomato goodness.
  • It smells incredible while cooking, the kind of aroma that makes everyone wander into the kitchen asking whats for dinner.
  • You can serve it a dozen different ways and it never gets boring.
02 -
  • Dont skip browning the meatballs, it builds flavor and helps them hold their shape in the sauce.
  • If the sauce looks too thick while simmering, add a splash of water. If its too thin, let it cook uncovered for the last few minutes.
  • Let the meatballs rest in the sauce for 5 minutes after you turn off the heat, they soak up even more flavor that way.
03 -
  • Use fresh breadcrumbs instead of dried, they make the meatballs softer and more tender.
  • A tiny pinch of cinnamon in the sauce might sound strange, but it ties everything together in a way that feels Mediterranean and cozy.
  • Taste the sauce before adding the meatballs back in and adjust the seasoning, its your last chance to get it right.

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