Lamb Meatballs Recipe

Prepare aromatics

Finely grate or very finely chop the onion. Squeeze out excess liquid if it seems very wet (save the juice for another use). Finely chop parsley and cilantro; mince garlic.

Mix meatball mixture

In a large bowl combine ground lamb, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley and cilantro, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, smoked paprika, allspice, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until ingredients are evenly distributed — avoid overworking the meat to keep meatballs tender.

Shape meatballs

Use a tablespoon or small ice-cream scoop to portion about 1 to 1 1/4 tablespoons of mixture (roughly 1-1.25 oz) and gently roll into uniform balls about 1 to 1 1/4 inches in diameter. You should get approximately 18–22 meatballs from 1 lb of lamb depending on size.

Cook meatballs

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons olive oil. When the oil shimmers, add meatballs in a single layer without crowding (work in batches if needed). Cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8–10 minutes total depending on size. Internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C). Transfer cooked meatballs to a paper towel-lined plate and keep warm. Optionally, deglaze the pan with 2 tablespoons water or lemon juice and scrape up any browned bits to spoon over meatballs.

While meatballs rest, make the sauce. In a bowl whisk together Greek yogurt, grated garlic, lemon juice, 1 teaspoon olive oil, 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin (if using), 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper until smooth. Taste and adjust salt or lemon. If the garlic is very sharp, let the sauce sit 10 minutes to mellow. Stir in chopped mint or parsley for freshness.

Warm pita or flatbread if using. Spread a spoonful of garlic yogurt on each pita, arrange 3–5 meatballs on top, drizzle more yogurt, and garnish with chopped herbs and a squeeze of lemon. Serve pickled red onions and lemon wedges on the side.