Garlic Herb Lamb Meatballs Zaatar (Print Version)

Tender lamb meatballs seasoned with garlic and herbs, complemented by a tangy zaatar yogurt sauce.

# What You'll Need:

→ Lamb Meatballs

01 - 1 lb ground lamb
02 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
03 - 1 small onion, finely grated
04 - 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
05 - 1 tbsp fresh mint leaves, chopped
06 - 1 tsp ground cumin
07 - 1 tsp ground coriander
08 - 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
09 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
10 - 1 tsp salt
11 - 1/2 tsp black pepper
12 - 1 large egg
13 - 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
14 - 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)

→ Zaatar Yogurt Sauce

15 - 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
16 - 1 tbsp zaatar spice blend
17 - 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
18 - 1 tbsp lemon juice
19 - 1/2 tsp salt
20 - 1 small garlic clove, grated

→ To Serve

21 - Fresh parsley or mint, chopped
22 - Lemon wedges
23 - Warm pita or flatbread (optional)

# Steps to Follow:

01 - In a large bowl, mix ground lamb, minced garlic, grated onion, parsley, mint, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, egg, and breadcrumbs until just combined.
02 - Moisten hands and shape mixture into 16–18 small meatballs, approximately 1 tablespoon each.
03 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry meatballs in batches for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned evenly and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
04 - Whisk Greek yogurt, zaatar, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and grated garlic in a small bowl until smooth.
05 - Arrange meatballs on a platter. Drizzle with or serve alongside zaatar yogurt. Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges. Accompany with warm pita or flatbread if desired.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Aromatic, flavorful blend of Middle Eastern spices
  • Quick to prepare, ideal for entertaining or weeknight meals
02 -
  • To make gluten-free, use GF breadcrumbs and bread
  • Lamb can be swapped for beef or turkey if you prefer a milder taste
03 -
  • Bake meatballs instead of frying if you want a lighter meal
  • Add chili flakes to the mixture for a gentle kick of heat
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