This flavorful recipe will take you on a culinary journey to the Middle East. The distinct aromas of cumin and mint beautifully complement the richness of the lamb, while the satisfying texture of the meatballs is balanced by a tangy tomato sauce.
Lamb is the star ingredient in this recipe. It's a type of red meat that's derived from young sheep. Not as commonly found in every home as beef or chicken, it has a strong, unique flavor that pairs well with robust spices. You might need to check the meat section in your supermarket or visit your local butcher to find ground lamb. Cumin is a spice made from the dried seeds of the Cuminum cyminum plant and is readily available in the spice section. Mint is a popular herb that you can find fresh in the produce section or dried in the spice aisle.
Lamb Meatballs with Cumin, Mint, and Tomato Sauce Ingredients
Ground lamb: A flavorful and rich protein that forms the base of the meatballs.
Blanched almonds: Adds a unique texture and pleasant nutty flavor.
Dried bread crumbs: Helps to bind the meatballs together.
Fresh mint: Refreshing herb that brightens up the dish.
Garlic: A flavor enhancer that adds a savory depth to the meatballs.
Ground cumin: Offers a warm, earthy flavor and works superbly with lamb.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavors of the dish.
Fresh ground black pepper: Adds a slight heat and complexity to the meatballs.
Cooking oil: Used for frying the meatballs and sautéing the onions.
Onion: Adds a hint of sweetness and is the base of the tomato sauce.
Crushed tomatoes in thick puree: Creates the tangy and robust sauce that coats the meatballs.
One reader, Darrin Bickel says:
The lamb meatballs with cumin, mint, and tomato sauce recipe is a culinary delight! The combination of flavors is simply divine. The cumin and mint add a unique twist to the traditional meatball, and the tomato sauce ties everything together perfectly. It's a must-try for anyone who loves savory, aromatic dishes.
Techniques for Crafting Delicious Lamb Meatballs
How to shape the meatballs: Roll the meat mixture into 16 evenly sized balls, each about 2 inches in diameter.
How to brown the meatballs: Cook the meatballs in a large nonstick frying pan over moderately high heat, turning them occasionally until they are browned all over, which should take about 3 minutes.
How to make the tomato sauce: In a large deep frying pan, sauté the onion until translucent, then add the crushed tomatoes, cumin, and salt. Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes before adding the meatballs.
How to simmer the meatballs in the tomato sauce: Add the browned meatballs to the tomato sauce and simmer them, covered, until they are cooked through, which should take about 10 minutes.
How to incorporate the mint: Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of mint just before serving to add a fresh, aromatic flavor to the dish.
How To Make Lamb Meatballs with Cumin, Mint, and Tomato Sauce
Grab a bite of these refreshingly savory lamb meatballs, packed with tender almonds, and simmered in a minty tomato sauce, for a filling dinner meal!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1½lbsground lamb
- 3tbspalmonds,blanched, chopped
- 3tbspdried bread crumbs
- 5tbspfresh mint,chopped
- 2garlic cloves
- 2tspground cumin
- 1½tspsalt
- ¼tspfresh ground black pepper
- 4tbspcooking oil
- 1onion
- 1cuptomatoes in thick puree,(from a 15 oz can), crushed
Instructions
-
In a medium bowl, combine the lamb, almonds, bread crumbs, 3 tablespoons of the mint, the garlic, 1 teaspoon of the cumin, 1 teaspoon of the salt, and the pepper
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Shape the mixture into 16 meatballs, about 2 inches in diameter.
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In a large nonstick frying pan, heat 2 tablespoons of the oil over moderately high heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning, for about 3 minutes, until browned on all over. Drain on paper towels.
-
In a large deep frying pan, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons oil over moderately low heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes, until translucent. Add the tomatoes and the remaining 1 teaspoon cumin and ½ teaspoon salt.
-
Bring to a simmer, reduce the heat, and simmer, covered, for 10 minutes. Add the meatballs to the tomato sauce and simmer, covered, for about 10 minutes longer, until the meatballs are cooked through. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons mint.
-
Serve warm, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 691.21kcal
- Fat: 57.84g
- Saturated Fat: 18.74g
- Trans Fat: 0.06g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 27.52g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 8.12g
- Carbohydrates: 11.13g
- Fiber: 2.72g
- Sugar: 2.95g
- Protein: 31.47g
- Cholesterol: 124.17mg
- Sodium: 637.69mg
- Calcium: 93.20mg
- Potassium: 630.51mg
- Iron: 4.89mg
- Vitamin A: 30.83µg
- Vitamin C: 8.91mg
Expert Advice for Perfecting Lamb Meatballs with Cumin, Mint, and Tomato Sauce
When shaping the lamb meatballs, try to keep them uniform in size. This ensures that they all cook evenly and at the same rate. If some meatballs are larger than others, they may require more cooking time, which could result in smaller meatballs being overcooked and dry. A good tip is to use a cookie scoop or a tablespoon to portion out the meat mixture before rolling it into balls. This will help you achieve consistently sized meatballs.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Lamb Meatballs with Cumin, Mint, and Tomato Sauce
Prep ahead: Prepare the meatball mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. This will save time on the day of cooking.
Use a food processor: Utilize a food processor to quickly chop the almonds, mint, and garlic for the meatball mixture.
Double the batch: Make a larger batch of meatballs and freeze half for a future meal. This way, you'll have a ready-made meal for another day.
Organize ingredients: Before starting, gather all the ingredients and tools needed for the recipe. This will streamline the cooking process.
Multi-task: While the meatballs are simmering in the sauce, use that time to prepare a side dish or set the table.
Prep station: Set up a designated prep station with all the ingredients and tools required for the recipe. This will help you work efficiently.
Substitute Ingredients For Lamb Meatballs with Cumin, Mint, and Tomato Sauce Recipe
ground lamb - Substitute with ground beef: Ground beef can be used as a substitute for ground lamb, as it has a similar texture and can absorb flavors well.
blanched almonds - Substitute with cashews: Cashews can be used as a substitute for blanched almonds, providing a similar nutty flavor and texture.
dried bread crumbs - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute for dried bread crumbs, offering a lighter and crunchier texture.
fresh mint - Substitute with fresh basil: Fresh basil can be used as a substitute for fresh mint, providing a similar herbaceous and aromatic flavor.
ground cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander can be used as a substitute for ground cumin, offering a similar warm and earthy flavor profile.
cooking oil - Substitute with ghee: Ghee can be used as a substitute for cooking oil, adding a rich and nutty flavor to the dish.
onion - Substitute with shallot: Shallots can be used as a substitute for onions, providing a milder and sweeter flavor to the dish.
crushed tomatoes in thick puree - Substitute with tomato sauce: Tomato sauce can be used as a substitute for crushed tomatoes in thick puree, providing a smoother and more concentrated tomato flavor.
Presentation Ideas for Flavorful Lamb Meatballs
Elevate the meatballs: Gently place the meatballs on the plate, ensuring they are evenly spaced and not overcrowded. This will showcase the individuality of each meatball and allow the sauce to be evenly distributed.
Garnish with fresh mint: Sprinkle freshly chopped mint leaves over the meatballs and sauce. The vibrant green color will add a pop of freshness and elevate the visual appeal of the dish.
Create a sauce swirl: Using a spoon, carefully create a subtle swirl with the tomato sauce on the plate. This adds an artistic touch and demonstrates attention to detail.
Incorporate a touch of cumin: Lightly dust a small amount of ground cumin around the edge of the plate for a visually appealing and aromatic element.
Use a minimalist plating approach: Embrace simplicity by opting for a minimalist plating style. This allows the flavors and textures of the dish to take center stage, demonstrating confidence in the culinary creation.
Consider the plate shape and color: Choose a plate that complements the colors of the dish, such as a white or neutral-toned plate to allow the vibrant colors of the meatballs and sauce to stand out.
Emphasize symmetry and balance: Arrange the meatballs and sauce with precision, ensuring a balanced and symmetrical presentation that reflects culinary expertise and attention to detail.
Add a final flourish: Before serving, drizzle a small amount of high-quality olive oil over the meatballs to add a luxurious sheen and enhance the overall presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Lamb Meatballs with Cumin, Mint, and Tomato Sauce
- Medium bowl: This is used for mixing the ground lamb, almonds, bread crumbs, mint, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to form the meatball mixture.
- Nonstick frying pan: The nonstick frying pan is used to brown the meatballs over moderate heat without the risk of sticking.
- Large deep frying pan: This is used for making the tomato sauce and simmering the meatballs in the sauce.
- Paper towels: These are used for draining the browned meatballs to remove excess oil.
Storing and Freezing Lamb Meatballs for Later
To store leftover lamb meatballs in the refrigerator, allow them to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. They will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the meatballs for up to 2-3 months:
- Place the cooled meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they are not touching each other.
- Freeze the meatballs until solid, about 2 hours.
- Once frozen, transfer the meatballs to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container with the date and contents for easy reference.
To freeze the meatballs with the tomato sauce:
- Allow both the meatballs and sauce to cool completely.
- Place the meatballs in a freezer-safe container and pour the sauce over them, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Leave some space at the top of the container to allow for expansion during freezing.
- Seal the container tightly, label it with the date and contents, and place it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat frozen lamb meatballs:
- If frozen without sauce, thaw the meatballs in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a covered skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through.
- If frozen with sauce, transfer the container from the freezer to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. Reheat the meatballs and sauce in a covered skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
How To Reheat Leftover Lamb Meatballs
To reheat leftover lamb meatballs in the tomato sauce, place them in a covered saucepan or pot over low heat. Stir occasionally until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce is simmering. This method helps to retain the moisture and flavor of the dish.
Another option is to reheat the meatballs and sauce in the microwave. Transfer the leftovers to a microwave-safe dish, cover with a lid or plastic wrap (leaving a small vent for steam to escape), and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the meatballs are hot and the sauce is steaming.
For a crispy exterior on the reheated meatballs, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Simultaneously, reheat the tomato sauce in a saucepan on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
If you have an air fryer, you can reheat the lamb meatballs in the appliance for a crispy exterior. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C), place the meatballs in the basket, and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through. Reheat the sauce separately in a saucepan on the stovetop.
To maintain the fresh flavor of the mint, add a sprinkle of freshly chopped mint leaves to the reheated dish just before serving. This will help to brighten the flavors and enhance the overall taste of the reheated lamb meatballs with cumin, mint, and tomato sauce.
Interesting Trivia About Lamb Meatballs
Lamb meatballs with cumin, mint, and tomato sauce is a popular dish in Middle Eastern cuisine. The use of cumin in the recipe not only adds a warm and earthy flavor but also offers several health benefits. Cumin is known for its digestive properties and is rich in antioxidants. It can aid in digestion, improve cholesterol levels, and may even have anti-inflammatory effects. Additionally, mint is often used to aid digestion and add a refreshing flavor to the dish. The combination of these ingredients not only creates a delicious meal but also offers potential health benefits.
Budget-Friendly Lamb Meatballs: Is This Recipe Economical?
This lamb meatballs with cumin, mint, and tomato sauce recipe offers a cost-effective option for a household. The combination of ground lamb, almonds, and pantry staples creates a flavorful and satisfying dish. The use of ground lamb and dried bread crumbs keeps the cost reasonable, while the addition of fresh mint and cumin elevates the flavors. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25, making it an affordable and delicious option for a family meal. Overall Verdict: 9/10
Are Lamb Meatballs with Cumin, Mint, and Tomato Sauce Healthy?
The lamb meatballs with cumin, mint, and tomato sauce recipe is a flavorful dish that offers some nutritional benefits, but it also has some aspects that could be improved to make it healthier. On the positive side, lamb is a good source of protein, iron, and vitamin B12. The recipe also includes some healthy ingredients like mint, garlic, onion, and tomatoes, which provide various vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
However, there are a few areas of concern:
- The recipe uses ground lamb, which can be high in saturated fat
- The meatballs are fried in oil, adding extra fat and calories
- The recipe includes bread crumbs and almonds, which may contribute to a higher calorie count
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Use lean ground lamb or substitute a portion of the lamb with ground turkey or chicken to reduce the overall fat content
- Instead of frying the meatballs, try baking them in the oven or cooking them on a grill to minimize the added oil
- Replace the bread crumbs with whole wheat breadcrumbs or rolled oats for added fiber
- Reduce the amount of almonds or replace them with a lower-calorie alternative, such as finely chopped vegetables like carrots or zucchini
- Increase the amount of tomatoes and onions in the sauce to boost the vegetable content and provide more nutrients
- Serve the meatballs with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables and a whole grain like quinoa or brown rice to create a well-rounded, nutritious meal
Editor's Opinion: Lamb Meatballs with Cumin, Mint, and Tomato Sauce Recipe Review
The combination of ground lamb, cumin, mint, and tomato sauce in this recipe creates a delightful and aromatic dish. The use of blanched almonds and fresh mint adds a unique texture and flavor to the meatballs, while the tomato sauce provides a rich and savory base. The cooking process is well-structured, ensuring the meatballs are perfectly browned and cooked through. The wine recommendation is thoughtful and complements the dish perfectly. Overall, this recipe offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, making it a delightful and satisfying meal option.
Enhance Your Lamb Meatballs with Cumin, Mint, and Tomato Sauce Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Lamb Meatballs with Cumin, Mint, and Tomato Sauce Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of ground lamb, cumin, and mint that promises a burst of flavors. The use of blanched almonds and dried bread crumbs adds a unique texture to the meatballs. The tomato sauce is enriched with the aromatic blend of onion and crushed tomatoes, creating a luscious base. The careful instructions and attention to detail ensure a satisfying and authentic culinary experience.
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