Spiced Lamb Meatballs with Herbed Yoghurt

Sometimes you just want something comforting that doesn’t weigh you down, something flavourful, filling, and fresh. These spiced lamb meatballs hit that balance beautifully. They’re warmly spiced, quick to cook, and pair perfectly with a cool, lemony yoghurt sauce that brings everything to life. This recipe draws on the kind of flavours you’d find across the Mediterranean and Middle East, cumin, coriander, mint, without being complicated or heavy. Serve them with flatbreads and greens for a casual dinner, or pack them into a grain bowl for lunch the next day. 

Serves: 3–4
Time: 30–35 minutes

Ingredients

For the meatballs:

• 500g ground lamb
  
  

• 1 garlic clove, minced
  
  

• 1 small onion, grated or finely chopped
  
  

• 1 tsp ground cumin
  
  

• 1 tsp ground coriander
  
  

• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  
  

• ½ tsp smoked paprika
  
  

• 1 tbsp chopped parsley or mint
  
  

• Salt and pepper, to taste
  
  

• Olive oil, for frying
  
  

For the herbed yoghurt:

• ½ cup plain Greek yoghurt
  
  

• 1 tbsp chopped fresh mint
  
  

• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill
  
  

• Juice of ½ lemon
  
  

• Salt and pepper, to taste
  
  

Optional to serve:

• Warm flatbreads or brown rice
  
  

• Cucumber ribbons or mixed greens
  
  

• Pickled red onions or pomegranate seeds
  
  

Method

1. In a large bowl, combine the lamb, onion, garlic, spices, herbs, salt and pepper. Mix until just combined, don’t overwork it. Roll into small meatballs (about the size of a walnut).

2. Heat a splash of olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Fry the meatballs in batches, turning until golden and cooked through (about 8–10 minutes). Set aside to rest.

3. In a small bowl, stir together the yoghurt, lemon juice, herbs, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.

4. Serve the meatballs warm with a generous dollop of herbed yoghurt, a grain or flatbread, and fresh crunchy veg or greens.

The Recipe’s Health Benefits:

• Lamb is naturally rich in high-quality protein, iron, zinc, and B12, all essential for muscle repair, immune function, and energy metabolism.

• Cumin, coriander, and cinnamon aren’t just for flavour, they’re packed with antioxidants and may support digestion and blood sugar balance.

• Garlic and onion provide prebiotics that feed your gut bacteria, supporting immune health and nutrient absorption.

• Greek yoghurt offers protein, calcium, and probiotics for gut support and post-meal satiety.

• Fresh herbs like mint and parsley bring anti-inflammatory compounds and support digestion, especially alongside heavier proteins.

• Lemon juice gives a hit of vitamin C, which can aid iron absorption from the lamb.