Persian-Influenced Meatballs

May 21, 2023May 21, 20230 14
Persian-Influenced Meatballs with date molasses and rose petals
in Meat

Prep

30 min

Cook

25 min

Ready In

55 min

Level

Easy

Rating

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
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Ingredients

1 lb ground beef ( can sub lamb or beef or lamb in combination )
1/4 cup rice meal ( I used basmati rice that was ground to meal consistency in a spice mill )
1 egg , whisked
1 teaspoon dried rose petals , crumbled with your fingers
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon saffron thread , crumbled
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro ( you can sub fresh mint if you hate cilantro )
2 tablespoons fresh Italian parsley
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
2 tablespoons date molasses ( aka dibs tamar )
2 tablespoons dried barberries
1/3 cup finely minced yellow onion
1 garlic clove , finely minced
2 tablespoons almonds , chopped ( can sub pistachios or walnuts )
plain yogurt
date molasses
saffron thread
dried rose petals

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe
4
Calories
440
Sugar
13g
Fat
28g
These meatballs are a variation on the classic Persian dish called ‘Koofteh’. Koofteh is essentially a meatball that is usually served with tomato sauce over a bed of rice. Typically, Koofteh is made with beef or lamb and may include some dried fruit like raisins. This recipe adds a unique twist with the addition of Persian flavors such as rose petals, saffron, and barberries. The date molasses provides a sweet flavor and helps to bind the meatball mixture. The baking method used in this recipe makes the meatballs slightly healthier as it eliminates the need for frying. The end result is a tender, juicy meatball with savory, slightly sweet and sour notes.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2.In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, rice meal, whisked egg, crumbled dried rose petals, ground cinnamon, crumbled saffron thread, fresh cilantro, fresh Italian parsley, salt, cracked black pepper, date molasses, dried barberries, finely minced yellow onion, finely minced garlic, and chopped almonds.
3.Shape the mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls. You should get around 18 to 20 meatballs.
4.Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they are not touching. You may need to use two baking sheets.
5.Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and browned on the outside.
6.Serve the meatballs with plain yogurt, additional date molasses, crumbled saffron thread, and dried rose petals for garnish, if desired.

PROS

These Persian-inspired meatballs are flavorful, tender, and have a unique combination of sweet and savory flavors.

They are easy to make and perfect for a family dinner or entertaining guests.

Date molasses and barberries are ingredients with high nutrient value

CONS

Ground beef contains saturated fat and may not be suitable for those with heart disease or high cholesterol.

Saffron is an expensive ingredient and may not be budget-friendly for some.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

The meatballs are a good source of protein and provide important vitamins and minerals such as iron and zinc.
Barberries are a rich source of vitamin C and antioxidants which protect our cells from damage.
The saffron in this recipe has anti-inflammatory properties and may help with symptoms of depression and anxiety.

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