Are you looking for a delicious and authentic Greek meatballs tomato sauce recipe? Look no further! Greek meatballs, also known as keftedes, are a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of herbs, spices, and a flavorful tomato sauce. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making these mouthwatering meatballs, along with a delicious tomato sauce that will take your taste buds on a journey through the heart of Greece.
First, let’s start with the meatballs. Greek meatballs are typically made with ground beef, lamb, or a combination of both. To enhance the flavor, we’ll add fresh herbs like oregano, mint, and parsley, along with garlic, onion, and a pinch of cinnamon. These ingredients will create a unique blend of flavors that will make your meatballs burst with Mediterranean charm.
Once the meatballs are prepared, it’s time to make the tomato sauce. This sauce is the heart and soul of the dish, and it’s what will bring everything together. We’ll use ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a mix of herbs to create a rich, aromatic sauce that will complement the meatballs perfectly. Don’t forget to add a splash of red wine for an extra layer of depth and complexity.
After the sauce is simmering, you can gently place the meatballs into the pot. Allow them to cook until they are tender and the sauce has thickened to a perfect consistency. Serve your Greek meatballs tomato sauce with a side of fluffy Greek rice or a fresh salad to complete the meal.
Here’s a simple recipe to help you get started:
Ingredients for Greek Meatballs:
– 1 lb ground beef or lamb
– 1/2 lb ground pork (optional)
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten
Ingredients for Tomato Sauce:
– 4 ripe tomatoes, chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup red wine
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
Follow these simple steps to create your own Greek meatballs tomato sauce:
1. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, chopped herbs, minced garlic, chopped onion, cinnamon, salt, pepper, and beaten egg. Mix well until the ingredients are well combined.
2. Shape the mixture into small, round meatballs.
3. In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until they are browned on all sides. Remove the meatballs from the pot and set them aside.
4. In the same pot, add the chopped garlic and onion. Sauté until they are translucent.
5. Add the chopped tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, red wine, fresh basil, fresh parsley, salt, pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil. Stir well and bring the sauce to a boil.
6. Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for about 20 minutes, or until it has thickened.
7. Return the meatballs to the pot and let them simmer in the sauce for an additional 10-15 minutes.
8. Serve the Greek meatballs tomato sauce with a side of Greek rice or a fresh salad.
Enjoy your delicious Greek meatballs tomato sauce, and let the flavors of Greece transport you to a land of culinary wonders!
