Dive into the comforting, aromatic world of Mediterranean flavors with Pezedes, a traditional spiced meatball recipe thatβs a feast for the senses. This dish features a flavorful blend of ground beef and lamb, seasoned with warm spices like cinnamon, cumin, and coriander, and brightened with fresh parsley. The tender meatballs are simmered in a rich tomato sauce infused with garlic, oregano, and a hint of sweetness from sugar, creating the perfect balance of savory and zesty flavors. Easily customizable, Pezedes can be served alongside crusty bread, fluffy rice, or your favorite pasta, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing option. Ready in just an hour, this recipe is ideal for family dinners or special gatherings and is sure to become a go-to favorite.
In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to absorb the milk.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground lamb, soaked breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, cinnamon, cumin, coriander, parsley, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly using your hands until well combined.
Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about the size of a golf ball, and set them aside on a plate.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Working in batches, brown the meatballs on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Transfer the meatballs to a plate and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Stir in the canned crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, water, sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and oregano. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, nestling them gently into the sauce. Cover the skillet and let the meatballs simmer in the sauce over low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with crusty bread, rice, or pasta.
Calories |
2807 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 180.2 g | 231% | |
| Saturated Fat | 64.2 g | 321% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 6.2 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 769 mg | 256% | |
| Sodium | 8290 mg | 360% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 134.9 g | 49% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 16.7 g | 60% | |
| Total Sugars | 42.2 g | ||
| Protein | 179.4 g | 359% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.6 mcg | 13% | |
| Calcium | 590 mg | 45% | |
| Iron | 26.5 mg | 147% | |
| Potassium | 4289 mg | 91% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.