Lamb Meatballs

Greek meatballs are a favorite of mine. They're not some Greek traditional recipe as far as I know, but at some point my Yia yia suggested my mom use fresh mint in a meatball recipe, and the rest is history. I did make the beef version of these several years ago (and honestly don't know if I've made them since), but this is a slightly simpler version. The best thing about cooking vs baking is that to a large degree it is not so much a science; there are times when it is, but in terms of seasonings and quantities, much can be varied which impacts taste only vs the actual form of the final.

In this case, I'd found some ground lamb by chance at Aldi. A seasonal item, I saw it in store and decided to give it a try. I don't eat lamb often, for various reasons, but the Greek in me does enjoy it from time to time.

Meatballs in general are an easy recipe. It's often a matter of adding some seasonings, breadcrumbs, and egg to ground meat, which provides some form. In this case, rather than breadcrumbs, I used some bread soaked in half and half (bread of choice, and you can use milk or cream). This was something I picked up from all the times my mom made these.

I used fresh parsley and mint in these, with the mint being an integral part of the final flavor. It's a little less mint than parsley, and it really gives these meatballs a special flavor.

I decided to cook these in a skillet, but baking on a broiler pan is fine as well.

I was careful to gently roll them over to avoid too much sticking in the pan, keeping them formed.

I served them over some spaghetti with some marinara sauce and topped it with feta, because, well, that's my favorite cheese for pasta to begin with and this is a Greek-inspired dish.

And I have to say, though no sommelier, a glass of cabernet was just the right fit alongside.

Lamb or beef, this is a delightful concoction, and I hope you'll give it a try.

The mint is detectable, but not overwhelming, and the mix of herbs provides really good flavor. I hope you'll give this a go and let me know how you enjoy it!

Lamb Meatballs Recipe

Ingredients:

1 pound ground lamb (or beef)

1 slice bread

1/4 cup milk or cream

1 egg

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon pepper

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint

Instructions:

Place slice of bread in a medium bowl, then pour cream over it. Let soak for 1-2 minutes, then mash into smaller pieces. Add meat, then add egg and seasonings. Form into meatballs. Bake for 15-20 minutes at 375 degrees F on a large broiler pan or cook on the stovetop with 1-2 tablespoons cooking oil for 7-10 minutes, stirring frequently to cook evenly.