Persian Meatballs
Large beef and rice meatballs simmered for 40 minutes in a tomato and saffron sauce with split peas and herbs.
Persian Meatballs, Step by Step
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Boil the rice and split peas for 15 minutes until half-tender and drain.
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Mix the beef, grated onion, rice, split peas, parsley, mint, turmeric, salt and egg and knead for 3 minutes. Shape into 4 large balls.
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Soften the sliced onion in the oil for 6 minutes. Add the tomatoes, saffron and water and simmer for 10 minutes.
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Lower in the meatballs, cover and simmer very gently for 40 minutes, turning once.
Notes for Getting It Right
- Knead the meat until sticky.
- Handle the meatballs gently.
- If your hob runs hot, keep the heat low.
- Turn them only once.
Serving Suggestions
- Flatbread
- Plain yoghurt
- Fresh herbs
- Pickled cucumber
Leftovers and Storage
Keeps in the fridge for 3 days. Reheat gently in the sauce.
Persian Meatballs: Questions and Answers
How long does Persian Meatballs take to make?
About 1 hour in total — 20 minutes of preparation and 40 minutes of cooking. The recipe serves 4.
What are the key tips for making Persian Meatballs?
Knead the meat until sticky. Handle the meatballs gently. If your hob runs hot, keep the heat low. Turn them only once.
What should I serve with Persian Meatballs?
Flatbread; Plain yoghurt; Fresh herbs; Pickled cucumber.
How should Persian Meatballs be stored?
Keeps in the fridge for 3 days. Reheat gently in the sauce.
Is Persian Meatballs suitable for a special diet?
This recipe is dairy-free, gluten-free, high-protein and no added sugar. Those labels are checked against the ingredient list, so a dish is only marked when nothing in it contradicts the claim.
How many calories are in Persian Meatballs?
About 520 kcal per serving, with 32 g protein, 35 g carbohydrate and 28 g fat. The figures are calculated from the ingredient list and are an estimate.
Persian Meatballs Nutrition
Per serving, calculated from the ingredient list. Treat these as an estimate — brands and cuts vary.
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Written and tested by Turab
One person, one kitchen — no test kitchen, no team. How every recipe on this site is checked before it goes up.