Spiced Lamb Meatballs with Lemonherb Yogurt Sauce
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction: Spiced Lamb Meatballs With Lemon Herb Yogurt Sauce
Fancy something a bit special for dinner? Then you need to try my spiced lamb meatballs . They're like a hug in meatball form, honestly.
You know when you crave something comforting but not boring? Well, here you go!
What's the story with these lamb meatballs ?
These mediterranean lamb meatballs aren't just some random dish I whipped up. They're inspired by Greek and Middle Eastern flavours, where lamb meatballs are often a staple.
They're not difficult at all, so even if you are a beginner you can manage it!. You need around an hour overall, with the recipe making approximately 20-24 meatballs.
Ideal for a family dinner or impressing some mates.
Why you should make these tonight.
Honestly, these Greek lamb meatballs are packed with flavour, and lamb is a great source of protein and iron. Plus, the lemon herb yogurt sauce adds a lovely fresh counterpoint to the richness of the lamb.
They're also perfect for a weekend gathering. You could even serve these homemade lamb meatballs with couscous for a complete meal.
They're just better than your average ground lamb recipes , it's all in the spices and sauce combination!.
Now you have the recipe benefits, let's get down to what you'll need to get started.
Ingredients & Equipment for Spiced Lamb Meatballs
Let's talk ingredients! Getting the right stuff is super important for these lamb meatballs . It’s honestly the difference between a good meal and a "wow, I need to make this again" meal.
I remember the first time I made spiced lamb meatballs ; I used the wrong kind of breadcrumbs. Total disaster!
Main Players
Okay, here's the list. No scrimping!
- Ground Lamb: 1.5 lbs (680g) . Look for 80% lean lamb . Too much fat and the lamb meatballs will shrink like crazy. Trust me, nobody likes a tiny, greasy meatball. I prefer it from the butcher if I can.
- Yellow Onion: 1 medium (about 1 cup/150g ), finely chopped.
- Garlic: 2 cloves , minced. The smellier, the better (well, almost!).
- Egg: 1 large , lightly beaten.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup (50g) . Panko's the bomb! It makes the homemade lamb meatballs nice and light.
- Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup (15g) , chopped. Get the fresh stuff, none of that dried business.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30ml) . Extra virgin, obviously.
- Ground Cumin: 1 teaspoon .
- Ground Coriander: 1 teaspoon .
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon .
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon .
- Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch (optional, I love the kick!).
For the lemon herb yogurt sauce , which, by the way, is the best part:
- Greek Yogurt: 1 cup (240g) . Full fat is richer, but low-fat works too.
- Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons (30ml) , freshly squeezed.
- Fresh Mint: 2 tablespoons (15g) , chopped.
- Fresh Dill: 2 tablespoons (15g) , chopped.
- Garlic: 1 clove , minced.
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (15ml) .
- Salt and pepper to taste.
Seasoning Notes
Cumin and coriander are the stars here! These give the mediterranean lamb meatballs their signature flavour. They are the real heroes in this easy lamb meatball recipe .
Mint and dill in the yogurt sauce brighten everything up. No mint or dill? Chives work. No lemon on hand? A little white wine vinegar can do the trick but the zing won't be there.
Equipment Needed
Keep it simple!
- Large mixing bowl.
- Small bowl.
- Baking sheet (if baking, for baked lamb meatballs ).
- Large skillet (for pan-frying).
- Meat thermometer (if you're serious about doneness, about 165° F ( 74° C) ).
Alternatives? Use a muffin tin instead of a baking sheet. No skillet? A frying pan is okay too. These Greek lamb meatballs are flexible.
Let's Get Rolling: Spiced Lamb Meatballs
Alright, let’s get stuck in! We're making spiced lamb meatballs with a lemon herb yogurt sauce that’ll knock your socks off.
Honestly, this lamb meatballs recipe is easy enough for a weeknight, but fancy enough for a dinner party. You know? Forget dry, boring meatballs we’re talking tender, flavourful bites of Mediterranean magic.
Prep Like a Pro: Your Mise en Place
First things first: get organised. Chop your onion (1 medium), mince your garlic (2 cloves), and get your herbs ready (1/4 cup parsley, 2 tablespoons mint, 2 tablespoons dill).
Get that egg (1 large) beaten. It's all about the essential mise en place , my friend! This easy lamb meatball recipe relies on a smooth workflow.
Got everything? Ace!
From Bowl to Belly: The Lamb Meatballs step-by-step
- Combine ground lamb (1.5 lbs), chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, panko breadcrumbs (1/2 cup), chopped parsley, olive oil (2 tablespoons), cumin (1 teaspoon), coriander (1 teaspoon), salt (1/2 teaspoon), black pepper (1/4 teaspoon), and red pepper flakes (pinch) in a large bowl.
- Mix gently. Don't overmix! Seriously, that's the key to tender homemade lamb meatballs .
- Cover the bowl and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes . This is important!
- Roll the mixture into 1 inch meatballs. Damp hands help loads.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Pan-fry the meatballs, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Or bake at 375° F ( 190° C) for 20- 25 minutes .
- While they cook, whisk together yogurt (1 cup), lemon juice (2 tablespoons), mint, dill, minced garlic (1 clove), olive oil (1 tablespoon), salt, and pepper for your lemon herb yogurt sauce .
- Serve those glorious mediterranean lamb meatballs immediately with the sauce.
Chef's Kiss: Pro Tips for Lamb Meatballs with Couscous (or anything!)
Want next level Greek lamb meatballs ? Don't skip the chilling! It prevents them from turning into a mushy disaster. Oh my gosh, you won't regret it.
Also, use a meat thermometer to make sure the internal temperature reaches 165° F ( 74° C) . You can totally prep the meatball mixture ahead of time and chill it overnight.
Just remember to bring it back to room temperature for about 15 minutes before forming the balls for best results! Now get cooking and enjoy these ground lamb recipes !
Recipe Notes for the Best Lamb Meatballs
Alright, before you crack on with making these amazing spiced lamb meatballs , let's have a quick chinwag about some extra bits and bobs.
Consider these my little nuggets of wisdom, gleaned from making these mediterranean lamb meatballs a few times.
Serving Suggestions: The Fanciest Bits!
So, you've got these beautiful, golden brown homemade lamb meatballs . Now what? First, presentation! Arrange them artfully on a platter. Drizzle generously with that gorgeous lemon herb yogurt sauce .
A sprinkle of fresh parsley really makes them pop.
For a proper meal, couscous is your best mate. Lamb meatballs with couscous is a match made in heaven! A simple Greek salad on the side? Bang on.
Or, fancy a bevvy? A light rosé is a fab shout with these.
Storage Tips: Keeping 'Em Fresh
Got leftovers? Lucky you! These easy lamb meatball recipe keeps nicely. Pop the cooked lamb meatballs in an airtight container and whack them in the fridge.
They'll be grand for up to three days. Reheat them gently in a pan or microwave.
Freezing? Absolutely! Freeze them on a baking sheet first, then bung them in a freezer bag. They'll last for up to two months. Defrost thoroughly before reheating.
Variations: Making It Your Own
Fancy a change? Why not try Greek lamb meatballs with feta crumbled through the meatball mix? Or, if you're avoiding gluten, swap out the panko for almond flour. It works a treat!
For a seasonal swap, try using butternut squash purée in the meatballs during autumn for a lovely, subtle sweetness. I honestly think ground lamb recipes are great for experimenting.
Nutrition Basics: The Goodness Inside
Each serving of these baked lamb meatballs packs a punch of protein and healthy fats. It's a delicious and satisfying meal.
Just remember, the nutrition info is an estimate , depending on what you use.
Honestly, give this lamb meatballs recipe a go, you won’t regret it. You’ve got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I prevent my lamb meatballs from being dry?
Nobody wants a dry meatball, do they? The key is not to overcook them! Use a meat thermometer and aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Also, don't overmix the meatball mixture; this can make them tough and dry.
Adding a bit of extra olive oil to the mixture can help too, keeping them moist and delicious, a bit like a well buttered crumpet.
Can I freeze lamb meatballs for later?
Absolutely! Freezing is a great way to have these little beauties on hand for a quick meal. Let the cooked lamb meatballs cool completely, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them individually. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag or container.
They'll keep for up to 3 months. When you're ready to use them, you can reheat them in the oven, microwave, or skillet, like a trusty ready meal.
What's the best way to bake lamb meatballs instead of frying them?
Baking is a healthier alternative to frying, and just as tasty! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the formed lamb meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and browned. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through for even cooking.
Baking gives them a lovely crust without all the added oil, a bit like a sunday roast but miniaturised.
What kind of ground lamb is best for these lamb meatballs?
Aim for ground lamb with around 80% lean meat. This will provide enough fat to keep the meatballs moist and flavorful without being overly greasy. If you can't find 80% lean, you can drain off any excess fat after cooking. Too lean and they'll be a bit like a cardboard, so don't go too mad on the diet!
Can I make the lemon herb yogurt sauce ahead of time for the lamb meatballs?
You bet! The lemon herb yogurt sauce can be made up to a day in advance. In fact, the flavors meld together even better if it sits in the fridge for a few hours. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Give it a good stir before serving to re-incorporate everything, makes it more like a tasty dip.
Are there any variations I can try to make my lamb meatballs a bit different?
Absolutely! Don't be afraid to experiment and put your own spin on these lamb meatballs. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of harissa paste to the meatball mixture. You could also try adding some chopped sun-dried tomatoes or crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
It is all about finding flavours that suit your tastebuds.
Spiced Lamb Meatballs With Lemonherb Yogurt Sauc
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 28g |
| Fiber | 2g |