Spicy Moroccan Lamb Meatballs

These are truly “amaze-balls”, and the aroma alone will turn this recipe into a monthly staple in your home.

You’ll Need:                                                                                                 

2 Tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

For The Balls:

• 1 lb ground lamb
• ½ cup onion, either grated or finely minced
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup cilantro, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp smokey paprika
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (more if you like it spicy!)
• 1 tsp salt
• Several turns on a black pepper grinder

What To Do:

So simple:

• Except for the olive oil, put all ingredients in a bowl.
• Mix with your hands until all ingredients are smoothly incorporated.
• Measure out 1 heaped tablespoon, then roll into a ball.
• Repeat with remaining mixture – should have 20 – 24 meatballs.

Next:

• You’ll do this in a couple of batches, depending on the size of your pan.
• Heat oil in a largepan over medium heat.
• Add ~half the meatballs, but do not crowd them in. 
• Cook, turning to brown all over. It’ll take about 6-8 minutes per batch, just open up a test ball to make sure your level of doneness has them cooked all the way through.
• Transfer them to a plate, do the others, and you’re done!

Play With Your Food:

Serve these with other elements of a Mezzi Platter, like pita bread, hummus, tabouli, etc. They are delicious as a sandwich in a pita, with tomato, onion, and a tzatziki sauce!

Also, tastes these lovelies, and judge the flavor profile. Note whether you notice the cinnamon, or need more spice, less/more salt, etc. Make these your own!