Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsThe River Oyster BarLamb Meatballs Recipe

Lamb Meatballs Recipe

Time1h
Serves4

spicy tomato sauce, ricotta, pecorino

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Ingredients

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Meatballs

Spicy Tomato Sauce

Method

Meatball Preparation

  1. 1

    Mix Ingredients

    In a large bowl, combine the ground lamb, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, and the egg. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

  2. 2

    Form Meatballs

    Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

  3. 3

    Chill

    Refrigerate the meatballs for at least 30 minutes to help them hold their shape during cooking.

Spicy Tomato Sauce

  1. 4

    Sauté Onions and Garlic

    In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

  2. 5

    Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

    Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes, red chili flakes, salt, and sugar. Stir to combine and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

  3. 6

    Add Fresh Basil

    Tear the basil leaves and stir them into the sauce. Simmer for another 5 minutes while preparing to cook the meatballs.

Cooking Meatballs

  1. 7

    Cook Meatballs

    In a separate pot, bring the spicy tomato sauce to a gentle simmer. Carefully add the chilled meatballs to the sauce. Cover and let them simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.

Serving

  1. 8

    Serve

    Once the meatballs are cooked, serve them hot, topped with a generous scoop of ricotta cheese and a sprinkle of grated pecorino cheese.

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