Spicy Lamb Meatballs with Raisin Pesto

Ingredients for Spicy Lamb Meatballs with Raisin Pesto

• 1 large egg

• 60g panko (Japanese breadcrumbs)

• 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin

• 1/4 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes

• 1/4 teaspoons ground turmeric

• 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley, plus 1 cup parsley leaves with tender stems

• 2 tablespoons plus 120ml extra-virgin olive oil

• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more

• 2 garlic cloves, divided

• 450g lamb mince

• 2 cups mint leaves

• 3 tablespoons golden raisins

• Plain whole-milk Greek yoghurt (for serving)

Place a rack in upper third of oven; preheat to 218°C. Combine egg, panko, cumin, red pepper flakes, turmeric, finely chopped parsley, 2 tablespoons oil, and 1 1/2 teaspoons salt in a large bowl. Finely grate 1 garlic clove into bowl. Add lamb and mix with your hands until evenly distributed.

Gently roll lamb mixture into 1 1/2"-diameter balls (about the size of a golf ball; you should have about 20). Place on a rimmed baking sheet, spacing evenly apart. Bake meatballs until browned and cooked through, 8–10 minutes.

Meanwhile, purée mint, raisins, parsley leaves with tender stems, remaining garlic clove, remaining 120ml oil, and a big pinch of salt in a blender until smooth. Taste pesto; season with more salt if needed.

Spread yoghurt over plates and divide pesto and meatballs on top.

Pesto can be made 2 days ahead; cover and chill. Meatballs can be formed 2 months ahead; freeze on baking sheet until firm, about 2 hours, then transfer to a freezer bag and keep frozen.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.