Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsCinghialeLamb Meatballs Recipe

Lamb Meatballs Recipe

Inspired by Cinghiale
Time1h
Serves4

Creamy Polenta, Castelvetrano Olives, Crispy Cipollini Onions

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Ingredients

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Lamb Meatballs

Creamy Polenta

Method

Lamb Meatballs Preparation

  1. 1

    Mix the Meatball Ingredients

    In a large bowl, combine ground lamb, minced garlic, chopped parsley, egg, bread crumbs, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly blended.

  2. 2

    Form the Meatballs

    Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs approximately 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

  3. 3

    Cook the Meatballs

    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally until they are browned on all sides and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.

Creamy Polenta Preparation

  1. 4

    Boil the Water

    In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water and 1 tsp of salt to a boil.

  2. 5

    Add the Cornmeal

    Gradually whisk in the cornmeal to avoid lumps. Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring frequently, for about 30 minutes until the polenta is thick and creamy.

  3. 6

    Finish the Polenta

    Stir in butter and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt if necessary.

Toppings Preparation

  1. 7

    Prepare the Cipollini Onions

    In the same skillet used for the meatballs, add the peeled Cipollini onions. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and sauté on medium heat until golden brown and caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.

  2. 8

    Add the Olives

    Once the onions are caramelized, add the halved Castelvetrano olives to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes just to warm the olives.

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