Moroccan Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
Moroccan meatballs in tomato sauce are tender lamb meatballs seasoned with mint, cumin, and cinnamon, and simmered in a spiced tomato sauce. A straightforward, weeknight-friendly dish ready in about 35 minutes.
Servings: 4 to 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 1 lightly beaten egg
- 1 clove very finely chopped garlic
- 2 tablespoons panko crumbs
- 1-1/2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh mint leaves
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the tomato sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 3 cloves very finely chopped garlic
- 2 cups undrained diced tomatoes
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground lamb, egg, garlic, panko, mint, parsley, cinnamon, coriander, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix just until blended and form into 16 to 18 meatballs (about 1-1/4 inches in diameter).
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and brown on all sides, about 3 minutes total (they will not be cooked through). Transfer to a plate and drain excess fat from the pan.
- Return the pan to medium heat and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the onion and cook until softened and translucent, 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the diced tomatoes with their juices, along with 1/2 teaspoon each of cinnamon and coriander. Season with salt and pepper and simmer for 2 minutes. Taste and adjust spices as desired.
- Return the meatballs to the pan and turn to coat in the sauce. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer gently until the meatballs are cooked through, 6 to 8 minutes.
- Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with parsley, and serve with steamed white rice.
Nutrition
Calories: 517 | Total Fat: 42g | Cholesterol: 124mg | Sodium: 1456mg | Carbohydrates: 12g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g | Protein: 22g