Spiced Lamb Meatballs (Print View)
Tender lamb infused with warm spices and fresh herbs, paired with a cool yogurt sauce.
# What You'll Need:
→ Meatballs
01 - 1.1 lb ground lamb
02 - 1 small onion, finely grated
03 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
04 - 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free optional)
05 - 1 large egg
06 - 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
07 - 1 tbsp fresh mint, finely chopped
08 - 1 tsp ground cumin
09 - 1 tsp ground coriander
10 - 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
11 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
12 - 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
13 - 1 tsp salt
14 - 1/2 tsp black pepper
15 - 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
→ Yogurt Sauce
16 - 3/4 cup Greek yogurt
17 - 1 tbsp lemon juice
18 - 1 tbsp fresh mint, finely chopped
19 - 1 small garlic clove, minced
20 - Salt and pepper, to taste
# Step-by-Step Directions:
01 - In a large bowl, thoroughly mix ground lamb, grated onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, mint, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, smoked paprika, chili flakes if using, salt, and black pepper until evenly blended.
02 - With damp hands, form the mixture into 16 walnut-sized meatballs.
03 - Warm olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches, avoiding overcrowding.
04 - Fry meatballs for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until evenly browned and fully cooked. Drain on paper towels.
05 - In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, chopped mint, minced garlic, and season with salt and pepper.
06 - Plate the hot meatballs alongside the yogurt sauce for dipping.
# Expert Suggestions:
01 -
- Discovering how simple spices can transform ground lamb into juicy, flavorful meatballs feels like a secret shared just between us
- This became a favorite because of the refreshing yogurt sauce that cools every bite perfectly
02 -
- Make sure not to overcrowd the pan when frying; it helps the meatballs brown evenly instead of steaming
- Adding a little moisture to your hands when shaping helps keep the meatballs uniform and less sticky
03 -
- Using fresh minced garlic instead of powdered gives the sauce a sharper, fresher flavor
- The secret to tender meatballs is not overmixing the meat, stop as soon as ingredients come together