Middle Eastern Meatballs

Made with your choice of ground lamb or beef (or a combination of both), these meatballs are infused with a medley of aromatic herbs and spices, resulting in a tantalizing blend of flavors. With a touch of Middle Eastern influence, these meatballs are perfect for a hearty meal or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer. So, let’s dive into this allergy-conscious culinary adventure and create a scrumptious dish that caters to diverse dietary needs!

Makes about 20 meatballs

ALLERGIES:

• Sf (Shellfish)
• Gf (Gluten)
• Df (Dairy)
• Ef (Egg)
• Nf (Nuts)

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 pounds of ground lamb or beef, or a mixture of the two
• 1 minced onion
• 1/2 bunch of fresh parsley or mint, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon of ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons of cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon of allspice (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to season
• 1/4 cup of coconut oil

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a bowl, combine the ground beef or lamb, minced onion, chopped herbs (parsley or mint), ground cumin, cinnamon, allspice (optional), salt, and pepper.
2. Knead the mixture well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Cover the bowl and let the mixture chill in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
5. Form the meat mixture into patties or balls about the size of a small egg and place them on a baking sheet.
6. Brush or drizzle the meatballs with coconut oil.
7. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for approximately 20-25 minutes or until they are cooked through and browned on the outside.
8. While the meatballs are baking, prepare brown rice and tzatziki sauce as desired.
9. Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the oven and serve them with brown rice and tzatziki sauce.

VARIATION:

• For different flavor profiles, you can experiment with additional seasonings such as coriander, cayenne pepper, or sesame seeds. Add them to the meat mixture according to your taste preferences.

SERVING OPTIONS:

When it comes to serving options for these allergy-friendly meatballs, there are several delicious choices you can consider. Here are a few serving suggestions to inspire you:

• Traditional Style: Serve the meatballs alongside some freshly cooked brown rice and a side of tzatziki sauce. This classic combination complements the flavors of the meatballs and adds a refreshing touch.
• Pita Wraps: Fill warm pita bread with the meatballs, along with some shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of tzatziki sauce. This option works well for a handheld meal or a portable on-the-go lunch.
• Salad Toppers: Slice the meatballs and use them as a protein-rich topping for a fresh salad. Combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and feta cheese (if tolerated) for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
• Spaghetti and Meatballs: Prepare your favorite gluten-free pasta, whether it’s made from rice, quinoa, or another alternative. Top the pasta with the meatballs and your preferred tomato-based sauce for a comforting and classic dish.
• Appetizer Platter: Arrange the meatballs on a platter along with toothpicks for a fantastic party appetizer. Serve them alongside a variety of dipping sauces, such as tzatziki, spicy ketchup, or a tangy barbecue sauce.

Remember to adapt the serving options according to specific dietary needs and preferences. With these versatile serving suggestions, you can enjoy these allergy-friendly meatballs in various ways, ensuring everyone can indulge in their deliciousness.