Save to Pinterest Succulent lamb meatballs infused with garlic and fresh herbs are paired with a tangy zaatar yogurt sauce for a truly lively Middle Eastern dish. Whether served as an appetizer or as the centerpiece of a main meal, these meatballs shine alongside flatbread or salad.
The first time I made these lamb meatballs for my family, everyone was amazed by how tender they turned out and loved dipping them in the cool zaatar yogurt. Now, it's a requested favorite for dinner parties and relaxed weekends.
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 (for frying): 2 tbsp
- 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 (for yogurt): 1, grated
- Fresh parsley or mint, chopped: to serve
- Lemon wedges: to serve
- Warm pita or flatbread (optional): to serve
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 everything is well combined.
- Shape the meatballs:
- With wet hands, shape the mixture into 16 small meatballs (about 1 tablespoon each).
- Cook the meatballs:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the meatballs in batches for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally until browned and cooked through. Transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels.
- Prepare zaatar yogurt:
- In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, zaatar, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and grated garlic until smooth.
- Serve:
- Arrange meatballs on a platter, drizzle or serve with zaatar yogurt, sprinkle herbs, and garnish with lemon wedges. Serve with warm pita or flatbread if desired.
Save to Pinterest These meatballs sparked a wonderful evening when my family gathered around the kitchen island, each one reaching for another tender bite and swapping stories about their favorite homemade meals.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, 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). Use GF options for a gluten-free dish and always check ingredient labels for safety.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 370, Total Fat 25 g, Carbohydrates 10 g, Protein 24 g
Save to Pinterest Serve with extra yogurt for dipping and a squeeze of lemon to finish. They're sure to disappear quickly!
Common Recipe Questions
- → How can I ensure the meatballs stay juicy?
Incorporate breadcrumbs and a beaten egg into the meat mixture to retain moisture during cooking and prevent dryness.
- → What is the best cooking method for these meatballs?
Pan-frying over medium heat allows the meatballs to develop a golden crust while remaining tender inside, though baking is a lighter alternative.
- → Can I substitute the lamb with another protein?
Yes, ground beef or turkey can be used for a milder flavor while keeping similar texture and cooking times.
- → What does zaatar add to the yogurt sauce?
Zaatar brings a fragrant blend of herbs and spices, adding earthy and tangy notes that elevate the creamy yogurt.
- → How should I serve these meatballs for best flavor?
Serve warm with flatbread or salad, garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges to balance the rich meatballs and yogurt sauce.