28 Nov 2025
Cook time 105 min
Prep time 45 min
Ingredients:
1/4 cup olive oil
1 onion
2 garlic cloves
2 cherry tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato puree
1/3 cup green beans
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp allspice
1 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 cup fresh parsley
1 lb lamb mince
1/2 cup basmati rice
Indulge in the rich and exotic flavors of the Middle East with this one pot slow-cooked lamb meatballs. Not only is it a comforting and hearty meal, but it also simplifies the cooking process by combining everything in one pot. Packed with aromatic spices and tender lamb, these meatballs are sure to be a hit at the dinner table.
Instructions:
1. Prepare Ingredients: Begin by finely chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. Halve the cherry tomatoes. Trim and cut the green beans into bite-sized pieces. Chop the fresh parsley. Measure out all the spices and set them aside.
2. Cook Onion and Garlic: In a large pot or slow cooker, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent and starts to brown, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add Tomatoes and Tomato Puree: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and tomato puree. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften.
4. Incorporate Spices and Green Beans: Add the paprika, allspice, ground nutmeg, and chopped green beans to the pot. Stir well to combine and cook for another 2 minutes.
5. Prepare Meatballs Mixture:
a. In a large bowl, combine the lamb mince, basmati rice, and half of the chopped fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
b. Mix all the ingredients together until well combined. This can be done with your hands or with a spoon.
6. Form Meatballs: Take small handfuls of the lamb mixture and shape them into meatballs, roughly the size of a golf ball. You should get about 16-18 meatballs from this quantity of mixture.
7. Cook Meatballs:
a. Gently place the meatballs into the pot, ensuring they're nestled well within the tomato mixture.
b. Add enough water to almost cover the meatballs (about 1.5 to 2 cups), and bring the pot to a gentle simmer.
8. Slow Cook:
a. If using a slow cooker, transfer the entire pot contents to the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
b. If continuing on the stove, reduce the heat to a low simmer, cover the pot with a lid, and cook for 1.5-2 hours, ensuring to stir occasionally and check if additional water is needed.
9. Finish Dish:
a. Once the meatballs and rice are thoroughly cooked, taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
b. Stir in the remaining fresh parsley just before serving for a fresh burst of flavor.
10. Serve: Scoop the lamb porcupine meatballs along with the flavorful tomato sauce into bowls. Serve hot, possibly with a side of warm pita bread or steamed vegetables.
Tips:
- Make sure to finely chop the onion and garlic for a smoother consistency in the meatballs.
- Sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until they are golden brown to enhance their flavors before adding other ingredients.
- For added depth of flavor, toast the spices lightly in the pot before combining them with the other ingredients.
- Mix the lamb mince and rice thoroughly to ensure even cooking of the meatballs.
- Check the meatballs occasionally while they are cooking to make sure they are not sticking to the pot.
- Consider serving these meatballs over a bed of couscous or with a side of pita bread for a complete meal.
With a perfect blend of spices and the tender texture of slow-cooked lamb, these Middle Eastern lamb porcupine meatballs are a surefire way to impress your family and friends. This one pot method not only makes for easy cleanup but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully together. Enjoy the rich taste of the Middle East in every bite!