Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with an exquisite blend of flavors and aromas in this One Pan Lamb Meatballs and Saffron Rice with Herby Yogurt Sauce! This Middle Eastern-inspired dish not only delivers a delightful culinary experience but also offers the convenience of a single pan for easy cooking and cleanup. Picture succulent lamb meatballs infused with warm spices, perfectly paired with fragrant saffron rice that transforms your dining table into a feast fit for royalty. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply craving a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Dive into this delicious adventure and discover how to create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp coriander
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 tsp saffron threads
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (parsley, mint)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground lamb, breadcrumbs, egg, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Set aside.
- In the same pan you will be cooking the meatballs, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the pan and set them aside.
- In the same pan, add the basmati rice, chicken broth, and saffron threads. Stir to combine and make sure the rice is evenly distributed. Place the meatballs back into the pan, nestling them into the rice mixture.
- Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed most of the broth. While the dish is baking, prepare the herby yogurt sauce. In a small bowl, combine the plain yogurt and chopped fresh herbs. Mix until well combined.
- Once the rice is cooked and the meatballs are fully cooked, remove the pan from the oven. Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve the lamb meatballs and saffron rice topped with a dollop of the herby yogurt sauce. Enjoy!
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh ground lamb and high-quality saffron threads. The richness of the lamb and the aromatic saffron will elevate your dish significantly.
- Don’t Skip the Browning: Browning the meatballs before baking not only adds depth of flavor but also helps to lock in moisture. Make sure to turn them carefully for an even golden crust.
- Let the Rice Absorb: When adding the rice to the broth, ensure it is evenly spread out in the pan. This helps it absorb the flavors from the broth and saffron effectively.
- Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes after baking lets the flavors meld together beautifully. It also helps the rice firm up slightly, making it easier to serve.
- Customize the Herby Yogurt Sauce: Feel free to experiment with different herbs in the yogurt sauce! Dill, cilantro, or even a hint of garlic can add a unique twist to this refreshing accompaniment.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 110mg
