Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup minced onion
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special Equipment Needed:
- Mixing bowl
- Skillet or griddle
- Food processor or mortar and pestle
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, minced onion, egg, salt, black pepper, cumin, paprika, and chopped parsley. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1-2 inches in diameter.
3. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through.
4. While the meatballs are cooking, prepare the garlic sauce. In a food processor or mortar and pestle, combine minced garlic, plain yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend or mash until smooth.
5. Serve the meatballs hot with the garlic sauce on the side for dipping.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 10 minutes
Temperature:
- Skillet or griddle should be heated to medium-high heat.
Serving size:
- This recipe makes about 20-25 meatballs, serving 4-6 people.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 14g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground lamb or turkey can be used instead of ground beef.
- Panko breadcrumbs can be used instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- Fresh cilantro can be used instead of parsley.
- Greek yogurt can be used instead of plain yogurt.
Variations:
- Add chopped mint to the meatball mixture for a fresh flavor.
- Serve the meatballs on a bed of rice or with pita bread for a more filling meal.
- Add chopped tomatoes and cucumbers to the garlic sauce for a refreshing twist.
Tips and Tricks:
- Wet your hands with water before forming the meatballs to prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet or griddle when cooking the meatballs to ensure even browning.
- Make the garlic sauce ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Storage Instructions:
- Store leftover meatballs and garlic sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- To reheat the meatballs, place them in a skillet over medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
- To reheat the garlic sauce, microwave for 30 seconds or until warm.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the meatballs on a platter with the garlic sauce in a small bowl in the center.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or mint for a pop of color.
Pairings:
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Roasted carrots and potatoes
- Greek salad
- Grilled asparagus
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the meatballs are falling apart while cooking, add more breadcrumbs to the mixture to help bind it together.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 160°F to ensure they are fully cooked.
Food History:
- Akçaabat is a town in Turkey known for its delicious meatballs, which are made with a combination of beef and lamb.
Flavor Profiles:
- The meatballs are savory and slightly spicy, with a hint of cumin and paprika. The garlic sauce is tangy and creamy, with a strong garlic flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer or main dish at a party or family gathering.
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Region: Turkish