Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef or chicken (halal): Ground beef or chicken is the base of the meatballs, providing the protein and texture. You can use lean beef or chicken for a healthier version.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds moisture and flavor to the meatballs.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: For a fragrant and savory kick.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (halal-certified): Helps bind the meat mixture together and adds texture to the meatballs.
- 1/4 cup parsley, finely chopped: Adds a fresh, herbal note to the meatballs.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, ensure halal-certified): Adds a creamy, salty flavor that enhances the meatballs.
- 1 large egg: Helps bind the ingredients together and gives the meatballs a firmer texture.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: For a warm, earthy flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander: Adds a citrusy, aromatic flavor that balances the richness of the meat.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A subtle spice that works wonderfully in holiday dishes.
- Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning.
Instructions
FIRST STEP: PREPARE THE MEATBALL MIXTURE
-
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef or chicken with the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, parsley, grated Parmesan (if using), and egg.
-
Season the Mixture: Add the ground cumin, coriander, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overwork the mixture, as this can make the meatballs tough.
-
Form the Meatballs: Using your hands, scoop about 1 tablespoon of the meat mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used up. You should end up with about 24 meatballs, depending on the size you make them.
-
Chill the Meatballs: Place the meatballs on a tray lined with parchment paper and refrigerate them for about 15-20 minutes. This helps them hold their shape during cooking.
SECOND STEP: COOK THE MEATBALLS
-
Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the meatballs to the pan in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet.
-
Brown the Meatballs: Cook the meatballs for about 4-5 minutes on each side, turning them gently to ensure they brown evenly on all sides. Once the meatballs are browned, transfer them to a plate and set them aside.
-
Cook in Batches: If needed, cook the remaining meatballs in batches, adding more oil as necessary.
THIRD STEP: MAKE THE SAUCE
-
Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the olive oil and heat over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the tomato sauce, honey, balsamic vinegar, cinnamon, and allspice. Stir to combine and bring the sauce to a simmer.
-
Simmer the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld together. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or a bit more honey if desired.
FOURTH STEP: SIMMER THE MEATBALLS IN THE SAUCE
-
Add the Meatballs: Once the sauce is ready, carefully return the browned meatballs to the skillet. Stir gently to coat the meatballs in the sauce.
-
Simmer the Meatballs: Cover the skillet and let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for another 10-15 minutes, until they are fully cooked through and tender. The sauce should thicken and infuse the meatballs with flavor.
-
Serve and Garnish: Remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the meatballs to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley or mint leaves and toasted sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 30minutes
- Cook Time: 30minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 20g