Lamb Meatballs with Tangy Raisin Pesto

Ingredients

Estimated total cost: €12.12 · €2.02/serving

• 1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes (adjust amount based on spice preference)Est. price €0.02–€0.05
• 2 Tbsp. plus 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil (use high-quality olive oil for best flavor)Est. price €0.20–€0.40
• 1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, plus extra (season lamb mixture generously for balanced flavors)Est. price €0.03–€0.08
• 3 Tbsp. golden raisins (soak raisins in warm water to plump them up)Est. price €0.15–€0.30
• 1 grand eggEst. price €0.30–€0.60
• 2 garlic cloves, split (mince garlic finely for even distribution)Est. price €0.10–€0.25
• Plain whole-milk Greek yogurt (ideal for serving as a cool and creamy dip)Est. price €0.10–€0.25
• 1/2 tsp. powdered cumin (toast cumin in a dry pan for enhanced flavor)Est. price €0.04–€0.10
• 1/4 tsp. powdered turmeric (add turmeric for vibrant color and earthy flavor)Est. price €0.03–€0.08
• 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley, plus 1 cup parsley leaves with delicate stems (reserve tender parsley leaves for garnish)Est. price €0.15–€0.35

Steps

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 425°F and position a rack in the upper third. In a large bowl, mix together an egg, panko breadcrumbs, cumin, red pepper flakes, turmeric, finely chopped parsley, 2 tablespoons of oil, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt. Grate one garlic clove finely into the mixture. Add the lamb to the bowl and use your hands to combine everything evenly.

2. 2

   Form the lamb mixture into balls that are approximately 1 1/2 inches in diameter, similar to the size of a golf ball. You should end up with around 20 meatballs. Arrange them evenly spaced on a baking sheet with raised edges. Bake the meatballs in the oven until they are golden brown and fully cooked, which should take about 8 to 10 minutes.

3. 3

   In the meantime, blend mint, raisins, parsley leaves with tender stems, one more garlic clove, the remaining 1/2 cup of oil, and a generous pinch of salt in a blender until you achieve a smooth mixture. After blending, taste the pesto and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt if necessary.

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• Cultural note

  Lamb meatballs with tangy raisin pesto combines flavors from Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. Lamb is a popular meat choice in these regions, and the use of spices like cumin and turmeric reflects the influence of these culinary traditions. The addition of raisin pesto adds a unique twist to a classic dish.

• Seasonal note

  Lamb meatballs with tangy raisin pesto is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed year-round. However, lamb is often more readily available during the spring and fall seasons when it is in peak production.

• Health note

  This dish is a good source of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins like B6. It is relatively high in calories and fat, so portion control is important for those watching their calorie intake. The raisins add natural sweetness and fiber, while the herbs and spices provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory…