Hummus with Pistachio Lamb Meatballs Recipe
Introduction
This vibrant dish features tender lamb meatballs flavored with fresh mint and crunchy pistachios, served over a creamy bed of hummus. It’s a delightful combination of rich, nutty, and zesty flavors that works perfectly for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- 250g lamb mince
- ½ a small bunch of mint, plus a few mint leaves to garnish
- 30g pistachios, plus a few extra to garnish
- 1 lemon, zested
- 1 tbsp oil
- 200g tub plain hummus
- 30g feta, crumbled
Instructions
- Step 1: Place the lamb mince, mint, and pistachios in a food processor. Pulse roughly just to combine the ingredients without turning it into a paste. Add the lemon zest, then season generously with salt and pepper.
- Step 2: Shape the mixture into eight evenly sized meatballs.
- Step 3: Heat the oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Fry the meatballs for 8-10 minutes, turning regularly to brown them evenly on all sides until cooked through.
- Step 4: Spread the hummus onto a serving plate. Arrange the cooked meatballs on top. Garnish with a few fresh mint leaves, crumbled feta, chopped pistachios, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.
Tips & Variations
- If you don’t have a food processor, finely chop the mint and pistachios and mix them into the lamb by hand.
- For extra flavor, add a small clove of garlic or a pinch of ground cumin to the meatball mixture.
- Serve with warm pita bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Storage
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave before serving. The hummus is best eaten fresh but can be refrigerated separately for 2-3 days.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use beef instead of lamb for the meatballs?
Yes, ground beef can be used as a substitute, but lamb adds a unique richness and flavor that complements the mint and pistachios well.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, try replacing the lamb meatballs with spiced chickpea or lentil balls, seasoned similarly and pan-fried until crisp.
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Hummus with Pistachio Lamb Meatballs Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
A flavorful Middle Eastern-inspired dish featuring juicy pistachio lamb meatballs served atop creamy hummus, garnished with fresh mint, crumbled feta, and a sprinkle of chopped pistachios for added texture and zest.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 250g lamb mince
- ½ a small bunch of mint, plus a few mint leaves to garnish
- 30g pistachios, plus a few extra to garnish
- 1 lemon, zested (and juice for serving)
- 1 tbsp oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Serving
- 200g tub plain hummus
- 30g feta, crumbled
Instructions
- Prepare meatball mixture: Place the lamb mince, mint, and pistachios into a food processor. Pulse roughly to combine the ingredients evenly but still maintain some texture. Add the lemon zest, then season generously with salt and pepper and give it another brief pulse to mix.
- Form meatballs: Using your hands, shape the mixture into eight evenly sized meatballs, ensuring they’re compact so they hold together while cooking.
- Cook meatballs: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Fry the meatballs for 8 to 10 minutes, turning regularly to brown all sides evenly and cook through.
- Prepare serving plate: Spread the plain hummus evenly on a serving plate to create a creamy base.
- Assemble and garnish: Arrange the cooked meatballs on top of the hummus. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, crumbled feta, chopped pistachios, and finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.
Notes
- Use fresh mint for a vibrant flavor in the meatballs and as garnish.
- For a nuttier taste, lightly toast the pistachios before adding them to the meatball mixture.
- Cook meatballs over medium heat to ensure they cook through without burning.
- This recipe pairs well with warm pita bread or a simple cucumber salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Keywords: hummus, lamb meatballs, pistachio, mint, feta, Middle Eastern, appetizer, main dish
