Juicy Herb Meatballs with Garlic Rice & Tzatziki
A delightful dish featuring tender, herb-infused meatballs served with aromatic garlic rice and refreshing tzatziki, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 500 g Ground beef or lamb Choose high-quality, juicy meat.
- 1 medium Onion (grated) Adds sweetness and moisture.
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced) Enhances the dish's flavor.
- 1/4 cup Fresh parsley (chopped) Brings a herby taste.
- 1/4 cup Fresh mint (chopped) Offers a refreshing hint.
- 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs Helps bind the meatballs.
- 1 Egg Acts as a binding agent.
- 1 tsp Salt Essential for seasoning.
- 1 tsp Black pepper For seasoning.
- 1 tsp Ground cumin or oregano (optional) Adds an earthy note.
For the Garlic Rice
- 1 cup Basmati or long-grain rice Aromatic rice.
- 2 cloves Garlic (smashed or minced) Infuses rice with flavor.
- 1 tbsp Olive oil or butter For cooking the rice.
- 1 tsp Salt To season the rice.
- 1.5 cups Water For cooking the rice.
For the Tzatziki
- 1 cup Greek yogurt Base for the tzatziki.
- 1/2 medium Cucumber (grated and drained) Adds freshness.
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced) Intensifies the flavor.
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice Brightens the sauce.
- 1 tbsp Olive oil Enhances creaminess.
- 2 tbsp Dill or mint Adds unique flavors.
- 1 wedge Lemon (optional) For serving.
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley (optional) For garnish.
Instructions
Preparation of Meatballs
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped mint, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, black pepper, and optional spices. Mix gently until just combined.
- Using your hands, form into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
Cooking Meatballs
- Pan-fry in olive oil over medium heat until golden brown, about 10-12 minutes, or bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes.
Cooking Garlic Rice
- Rinse rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a saucepan, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add the washed rice, salt, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook for 15-20 minutes until fluffy.
Making Tzatziki
- In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, herbs, and salt. Mix well and chill for at least 15 minutes.
Assembly
- Serve garlic rice as the base, top with meatballs, and a dollop of tzatziki. Garnish with lemon wedge and parsley.
Notes
Allow the tzatziki to chill for better flavor melding. Ensure cucumber is well-drained to prevent a watery sauce.