Daoud Pasha - Oven-Baked Meatballs with Tomato Sauce

Name: Daoud Pasha - Oven-Baked Meatballs with Tomato Sauce - Romina N.
Ingredients: The name comes from the Turkish Daoud Pasha; who lived in Lebanon and was captivated by this dish. We need:; kg of ground beef (or lamb); 1 bunch of parsley; 2 medium onions; kofta spices (pepper; cumin; cinnamon; coriander; ginger; nutmeg); 2 potatoes; 1 green bell pepper; 2 tomatoes; 1 carrot; tomato paste (3 tablespoons); 1 teaspoon of salt

Diverse - Daoud Pasha - Oven-Baked Meatballs with Tomato Sauce by Romina N. - Recipia

Daoud Pasha - Oven-Baked Meatballs with Tomato Sauce If you want to indulge in a delicious dish, full of flavors and tradition, Daoud Pasha meatballs are the perfect choice! This dish combines succulent meat with fresh vegetables and a tomato sauce that will delight your taste buds. A simple recipe, yet with a remarkable impact on your table, ideal for a family dinner or a special occasion. Preparation time: 20 minutes Baking time: 35 minutes Total time: 55 minutes Servings: 4-6 Necessary ingredients To achieve the tastiest meatballs, it is important to choose quality ingredients. Here’s what you will need: - 1 kg ground beef (or lamb) - 1 bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped - 2 medium onions, peeled and chopped - Kofta spices (a combination of pepper, cumin, cinnamon, coriander, ginger, and nutmeg) - 2 potatoes, peeled and sliced thin - 1 green bell pepper, sliced - 2 tomatoes, halved - 1 carrot, peeled and sliced - 3 tablespoons tomato paste - 1 teaspoon salt - Hot water, for sauce Brief history The name of this dish comes from Daoud Pasha, a well-known leader who lived in Lebanon and was captivated by the flavors and taste of this dish. Daoud Pasha meatballs are often associated with hospitality and rich culinary traditions, being served at festive meals and special occasions. This recipe blends influences from various cultures, making them a versatile and appreciated dish. Step-by-step instructions 1. Preparing the meat: Start by placing the ground meat in a large bowl. Add the finely chopped onion and fresh parsley. These ingredients will not only add a unique flavor to the meatballs but will also bring a note of freshness. 2. Seasoning: Sprinkle the kofta spices and salt over the meat mixture. Mix well with your hands or a spatula until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. It is essential for the spice flavors to distribute evenly in the meat. 3. Shaping the meatballs: Wet your hands with water to prevent sticking. Take a portion of the meat mixture and shape it into cylindrical meatballs of desired size. Place them on a baking tray, leaving enough space between them to allow air circulation. 4. Preparing the vegetables: In the center of the tray, add the chopped onion, sliced potatoes, sliced carrot, and bell pepper. These vegetables will not only add flavor but will also create a bed of aroma under the meatballs. 5. Adding the tomatoes: Place the halved tomatoes among the meatballs. They will caramelize during baking and enrich the sauce with a sweet-sour taste. 6. Preparing the sauce: In a bowl, dilute the tomato paste with hot water. Add salt to taste. Pour the sauce evenly over the meatballs and vegetables, ensuring everything is well covered. 7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 220 degrees Celsius. Place the tray inside and let the dish simmer. After a few minutes, when the sauce starts to boil, reduce the temperature to 180 degrees Celsius. Bake for about 35 minutes or until the meatballs are browned and cooked through. Practical tips - Choosing the meat: If using lamb, be mindful of the fat ratio. Lamb has a stronger flavor but may require more spices to balance the taste. - Recipe variations: You can experiment with different vegetables depending on the season. For example, zucchini or eggplant can be added for extra texture and flavor. - Serving: This recipe is perfect alongside plain rice or rice cooked with noodles. Additionally, for a pleasant contrast, serve with assorted pickles. Nutritional benefits Meatballs are an excellent source of protein, essential for a healthy diet. The added vegetables not only provide extra vitamins and minerals but also contribute to better digestion. This recipe can be easily adapted to fit into a balanced diet by choosing lean meat and adding more vegetables. Frequently asked questions 1. Can I use chicken meat? Yes, you can use ground chicken, but make sure to adjust the spices to add more flavor. 2. How can I store the meatballs? The meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Reheat them in the oven to bring them back to life. 3. Can I make the meatballs in advance? Of course! You can shape the meatballs a day ahead and keep them in the refrigerator until cooking. 4. What drinks pair well with this dish? A dry red wine or a refreshing cocktail made with lime and mint can perfectly complement this dish. Final note Daoud Pasha meatballs are not just a tasty dish but also a story you can share with your loved ones. Each bite will remind you of rich culinary traditions and moments spent around the table. Enjoy cooking and savoring!