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Lebanese Kefta Meatballs in Tomato Pomegranate Sauce

Savor Authentic Lebanese Kefta Meatballs in Tomato Pomegranate Sauce

Enjoy Lebanese Kefta Meatballs in Tomato Pomegranate Sauce, a delicious fusion of spices and flavors that will impress your guests.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 meatballs
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Lebanese
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1.5 pounds ground beef Use 85% lean for juicy meatballs.
  • 1 medium yellow onion Grated or finely minced.
  • 3 cloves garlic Minced for depth in flavor.
  • 1/4 cup parsley Finely chopped.
  • 2 tablespoons mint Finely chopped.
  • 1 teaspoon ground allspice Adds authenticity.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon paprika Adjust for heat.
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper Adjust for spice tolerance.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For searing.
For the Sauce
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes Provides acidity and richness.
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste Intensifies flavor.
  • 1/4 cup pomegranate molasses Key for authentic flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon sugar Optional, to balance acidity.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley For garnish.

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • Skillet
  • baking sheet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, mint, and spice blend, seasoning with salt and pepper. Mix gently until combined.
  2. Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs with wet hands. Arrange them on a platter.
  3. Sear Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the meatballs in batches until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
  4. Make Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté chopped onion until translucent, then add garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, and pomegranate molasses. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. Simmer Meatballs: Return meatballs to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until cooked through.
  6. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with rice or pita.

Nutrition

Serving: 1meatballCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes. Adjust consistency with water or broth as needed.

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