Lamb meatballs with mint and tomato sauce

Lamb meatballs flavoured with mint and cumin, simmered in a spicy tomato sauce. Tender and tasty, they make a comforting, high-protein Middle Eastern dinner.

Preparation: 20 min  |  Cooking: 30 min  |  Servings: 4  |  Difficulty: Easy

Calculated per portion from Anses Ciqual 2025 values for each ingredient, based on the quantities listed. Household measures (spoonfuls, pieces) use average weights. 298 kcal · 38 g protein · 10 g carbohydrate · 12 g fat

Ingredients

• 500 g minced lamb
• 1 onion
• 1 bunch of mint
• 1 tsp cumin
• 2 tins of chopped tomatoes
• 2 cloves of garlic

Method

1. Mix the lamb, onion, mint and cumin, then shape into meatballs.
2. Brown them and set aside.
3. Make a tomato sauce with the garlic.
4. Simmer the meatballs in the sauce for 15 minutes.

Nutritional benefits

Minced lamb provides protein and iron, the tomato sauce adds lycopene and flavour, and the mint brings a freshness that lightens the dish. Simmered rather than fried, these meatballs make a balanced meal, to serve with couscous or vegetables. Naturally gluten-free.

Variations and substitutions

• With beef or a lamb and beef mix.
• With coriander instead of mint.
• Spicier: add harissa or chilli.
• Served in pitta with raw vegetables.

Storage and making ahead

Keep for 3 days and freeze well. Reheat in the sauce.

💡 Good to know

Mint in lamb meatballs is a classic: it adds freshness and makes a rich meat easier to digest.

Read also

Discover more high-protein recipes · healthy & balanced recipes · gluten-free recipes.

Foods in this recipe: lamb · onion · mint · cumin · tomatoes.

You might also like these recipes: Date, almond and cocoa energy balls · Salmon, avocado and edamame poke bowl · Chocolate protein mug cake.