Save to Pinterest Succulent lamb meatballs infused with garlic and fresh herbs, served with a tangy, aromatic zaatar yogurt sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or main course with flatbread or salad.
I first made these lamb meatballs on a chilly evening when friends gathered for dinner. The mix of fresh mint and zaatar yogurt brought bright, bold flavors that everyone talked about for weeks afterwards.
Ingredients
- Ground lamb: 500 g (1 lb)
- Garlic cloves: 2, finely minced
- Small onion: 1, finely grated
- Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp, finely chopped
- Fresh mint leaves: 1 tbsp, finely chopped
- Ground cumin: 1 tsp
- Ground coriander: 1 tsp
- Ground cinnamon: 1/2 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Large egg: 1
- Breadcrumbs: 1/3 cup (use gluten-free if needed)
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp (for frying)
- Plain Greek yogurt: 1 cup
- Zaatar spice blend: 1 tbsp
- Extra virgin olive oil: 1 tbsp
- Lemon juice: 1 tbsp
- Salt (for yogurt): 1/2 tsp
- Small garlic clove: 1, grated
- Fresh parsley or mint: chopped, for serving
- Lemon wedges: for serving
- Warm pita or flatbread: optional, for serving
Instructions
- Mix the meatball ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine ground lamb, garlic, onion, parsley, mint, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, egg, and breadcrumbs. Mix gently until well combined.
- Shape meatballs:
- With wet hands, shape mixture into 16 to 18 small meatballs (about 1 tablespoon each).
- Cook meatballs:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches, frying for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through. Transfer cooked meatballs to a plate lined with paper towels.
- Prepare zaatar yogurt sauce:
- Whisk together Greek yogurt, zaatar, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and grated garlic in a small bowl until smooth.
- Serve:
- Arrange meatballs on a platter. Drizzle or serve with zaatar yogurt, sprinkle with fresh herbs, and garnish with lemon wedges. Serve with warm pita or flatbread if desired.
Save to Pinterest My family loves assembling their own pita wraps and adding extra herbs. Sharing this dish always brings lively conversation and lots of laughter to our table.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, large skillet or frying pan, spatula or tongs, grater for onion and garlic, small mixing bowl, whisk
Allergen Information
Contains: Eggs, dairy (Greek yogurt), gluten (breadcrumbs, pita/flatbread). For gluten-free version, always double-check ingredient labels when swapping bread or breadcrumbs.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 370, Total Fat 25 g, Carbohydrates 10 g, Protein 24 g
Save to Pinterest Serve these meatballs hot with plenty of fresh herbs and lemon. They are the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and aromatic flavors for any gathering.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What spices enhance the lamb meatballs?
The meatballs are seasoned with cumin, coriander, cinnamon, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, which create a warm and aromatic flavor blend.
- → How is the zaatar yogurt sauce prepared?
Simply whisk together plain Greek yogurt, zaatar spice, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and grated garlic until smooth for a tangy, herb-infused sauce.
- → Can these meatballs be baked instead of fried?
Yes, bake them at 200°C (400°F) for 18–20 minutes, turning halfway to ensure even cooking and a lighter result.
- → What are suitable side options for serving?
Serve meatballs with warm flatbread or pita, fresh herbs, lemon wedges, or a crisp salad to complement the dish.
- → Is there a gluten-free version available?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pair with gluten-free bread to make the dish suitable for gluten-free diets.