Middle Eastern Meatballs Recipe

Savory meatballs infused with Middle Eastern spices.

Middle Eastern Meatballs, known as 'Kofta', are a delicious and flavorful dish that combines ground meat with a variety of seasonings and herbs. This recipe brings together the warmth of cinnamon, the earthiness of cumin, and the freshness of parsley, resulting in a savory and satisfying meal that is perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Traditionally, these meatballs are grilled, but they can also be baked or pan-fried to suit your preferences. Served with a side of tangy yogurt sauce, warm pita bread, and a fresh salad, Middle Eastern Meatballs are sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

• 500g ground lamb or beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground allspice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp breadcrumbs
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Nutrition

Calories: ~250 calories

Instructions

1. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. Form Meatballs: Take a small amount of the meat mixture and roll it between your palms to form meatballs, each about the size of a walnut. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Chill Meatballs: Refrigerate the meatballs for at least 15 minutes to help them hold their shape during cooking.
4. Cook Meatballs: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through, about 12-15 minutes.
5. Make Yogurt Sauce: While the meatballs are cooking, prepare the yogurt sauce by combining 1 cup of plain yogurt, 1 clove minced garlic, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp chopped fresh mint, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Mix well.
6. Serve: Serve the meatballs hot, accompanied by the yogurt sauce, warm pita bread, and a fresh salad on the side.

Enjoy your flavorful Middle Eastern Meatballs with a variety of side dishes for a complete meal. These meatballs can also be served over rice or couscous, offering different textures and flavors to complement the rich taste of the meat.

If you’re in the mood to experiment, try adding a handful of chopped mint or cilantro to the meat mixture for extra freshness. Additionally, you can spice things up with a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper if you enjoy a bit of heat.

Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They also freeze well, making them a great option for meal prepping. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy.

For a vegetarian twist, substitute the ground meat with a combination of cooked chickpeas and lentils. Adjust the seasonings to taste, and follow the same steps for mixing, forming, and cooking the meatballs.