If you have minced meat at home and are looking for a new way to enjoy it, look no further. These meatballs are unlike any you’ve ever tasted before! Packed with lentils, vegetables, and a delightful blend of spices, they are both hearty and flavorful. Perfect for a family meal or a gathering with friends, these meatballs are sure to become a favorite in your household.
Meatballs are a classic dish loved by many, but this recipe takes them to a whole new level. Combining minced meat with lentils and a variety of vegetables, these meatballs are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The unique blend of spices adds a depth of flavor that makes these meatballs truly unforgettable. Whether you’re serving them with pasta, in a sandwich, or on their own, these meatballs are sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 500g lentils
- 500g minced meat
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- 1.5 bell peppers, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, grated
- 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
- 2 eggs
- 50g breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 40ml olive oil
- 100ml vegetable oil (for frying)
Step-by-Step Recipe
- Preparing the Ingredients
- Cook the Lentils: Rinse the lentils thoroughly and cook them in boiling water until they are tender. Drain and set aside to cool.
- Chop the Vegetables: Finely chop the onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes. Grate the carrots.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced meat, cooked lentils, chopped onions, bell peppers, carrots, and tomatoes.
- Making the Meatball Mixture
- Add the Eggs and Breadcrumbs: Add the eggs and breadcrumbs to the meat and vegetable mixture. These ingredients help bind the mixture together.
- Season the Mixture: Add the salt, black pepper, cumin, thyme, paprika, and oregano. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
- Add Olive Oil: Drizzle in the olive oil and mix again to ensure even distribution.
- Shaping and Cooking the Meatballs
- Form the Meatballs: Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls. Feel free to shape them to any size you desire, whether small or large.
- Heat the Oil: In a large frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Fry the Meatballs: Carefully place the meatballs in the hot oil and fry them until they are golden brown and cooked through, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. This should take about 8-10 minutes per batch.
- Serving the Meatballs
- Drain the Meatballs: Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Serve Hot: Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. They pair wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad.
Conclusion
These meatballs are a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy minced meat. The addition of lentils and vegetables not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional value, making them a wholesome choice for any meal. The blend of spices gives these meatballs a unique and irresistible taste that will have everyone coming back for more. Try this recipe today and discover the joy of making (and eating) the most delicious meatballs ever!