Name: Merguez Meatballs With Mozzarella Recipe
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb ground lamb; 5 cloves garlic; 1 tbsp parsley; 1½ tbsp harissa paste; ¾ tsp kosher salt; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp coriander; 1 tsp sumac; ¼ tsp turmeric; ½ tsp fennel seeds; ¼ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp garlic powder; ⅛ tsp Cinnamon; 8 mozzarella balls; 1 tbsp olive oil; ¼ tsp salt; red pepper flake

Merguez meatballs with mozzarella is an exciting and flavor-packed dish that combines spicy, aromatic lamb with the creamy goodness of mozzarella. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, bringing together exotic spices and a touch of indulgence.

Photos of Merguez Meatballs With Mozzarella Recipe

Some of the ingredients in this recipe might not be commonly found in every household. Look for harissa paste in the international or spice section of your supermarket. Sumac and fennel seeds might be available in the spice aisle or at specialty stores. If you don't already have them, they're worth the hunt for the unique flavors they bring.

Ingredients for Merguez Meatballs with Mozzarella

Ground lamb: The base meat, providing a rich and robust flavor.

Garlic: Adds a pungent, savory kick.

Parsley: Fresh and slightly peppery, it balances the spices.

Harissa paste: A spicy, aromatic paste made from chili peppers, often used in North African cuisine.

Kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor.

Paprika: Adds a mild, sweet pepper flavor and a touch of color.

Cumin: Provides a warm, earthy taste.

Coriander: Adds a citrusy, slightly sweet flavor.

Sumac: Offers a tangy, lemony flavor, often used in Middle Eastern cooking.

Turmeric: Adds a warm, slightly bitter taste and a golden color.

Fennel seeds: Imparts a sweet, anise-like flavor.

Black pepper: Adds a sharp, spicy note.

Garlic powder: Enhances the garlic flavor in the meatballs.

Cinnamon: Adds a touch of warmth and sweetness.

Mozzarella balls: Creamy cheese centers that melt beautifully inside the meatballs.

Olive oil: Used for sautéing the meatballs, adding a rich flavor.

Red pepper flake: For an extra kick of heat.

One reader, Judon Clement says:

These merguez meatballs with mozzarella are a flavor explosion! The spices blend perfectly with the lamb, and the gooey mozzarella center is a delightful surprise. Easy to make and absolutely delicious, they were a hit at our dinner party. Highly recommend!

Judon Clement

Techniques Required for Making Merguez Meatballs with Mozzarella

How to mince garlic: Finely chop garlic cloves into small pieces using a knife. How to chop parsley: Use a knife to cut parsley leaves into small, even pieces. How to combine meat mixture: Use your hands to mix ingredients thoroughly without overworking the meat. How to form meatballs: Shape the meat mixture into balls, ensuring the mozzarella is sealed inside. How to sear meatballs: Cook meatballs in a hot pan until each side is dark brown. How to lower heat and cover: Reduce the heat and cover the pan to ensure meatballs are cooked through. How to garnish: Sprinkle chili flakes and chopped parsley over the meatballs before serving.

How To Make Merguez Meatballs With Mozzarella

We are going to make a meatball dish with lamb. The generous amount of harissa paste mixed with herbs and spices make these Merguez meatballs superb.

Preparation:

Cooking:

Total:

Serves:

Ingredients

1lbground lamb
5clovesgarlic,minced
1tbspparsley,finely chopped
1½tbspharissa paste
¾tspkosher salt
1tsppaprika
1tspcumin
1tspcoriander
1tspsumac
¼tspturmeric
½tspfennel seeds
¼tspblack pepper
½tspgarlic powder
⅛tspcinnamon
8Mozzarella balls,cut in half
1tbspolive oil
¼tspsalt,to sprinkle
red pepper flake

Instructions

In a large bowl, add the ground meat, minced garlic, chopped parsley, harissa, salt, paprika, cumin, coriander, sumac, turmeric, fennel, black pepper, garlic powder, and cinnamon.
Use your hands to combine mixture, making sure not to overwork the meat.
Grab a small handful of meat and push half a mozzarella ball into the center. Gently roll the meat into a ball, sealing tightly where the mozzarella ball is nestled. Repeat until you have around 16 meatballs.
Over medium-high heat, add olive oil into a sauté pan or skillet. Once the oil is hot, drop the meatballs in and leave room so that they are not sticking to each other. As they cook on the pan, sprinkle a pinch of salt on each side.
Allow each side of the meatball to get a nice dark brown sear before using a spoon to turn them over. Repeat this process until you have even browning.
Once the meatballs are seared perfectly all around, lower the heat and cover for a bit to make sure they’re fully cooked in the center.
Garnish with chili flakes for an extra kick and chopped parsley and serve.
Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 1038.48kcal
Fat: 80.45g
Saturated Fat: 41.54g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 28.28g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.30g
Carbohydrates: 8.19g
Fiber: 0.98g
Sugar: 2.63g
Protein: 69.19g
Cholesterol: 259.74mg
Sodium: 1476.14mg
Calcium: 1173.27mg
Potassium: 526.82mg
Iron: 3.69mg
Vitamin A: 430.19µg
Vitamin C: 4.67mg

Helpful Technique for Preparing Merguez Meatballs

When forming the meatballs, ensure your hands are slightly damp to prevent the ground lamb mixture from sticking to your fingers. This will help you achieve a smoother, more uniform shape and make it easier to seal the mozzarella balls inside.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Prepare ingredients in advance: Mince the garlic and chop the parsley ahead of time to streamline the process.

Use pre-made harissa: Opt for store-bought harissa paste to save time on making your own.

Pre-measure spices: Measure out all spices and seasonings before starting to ensure a smooth workflow.

Batch roll meatballs: Form all the meatballs at once before cooking to save time on switching tasks.

Cook in batches: If your pan is small, cook the meatballs in batches to ensure even browning and avoid overcrowding.

Substitute Ingredients For Merguez Meatballs With Mozzarella Recipe

ground lamb - Substitute with ground beef: Ground beef has a similar texture and can absorb the spices well, making it a good alternative.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, sweeter flavor that can complement the spices in the meatballs.
parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro offers a fresh, citrusy flavor that pairs well with the spices used in the recipe.
harissa paste - Substitute with sriracha: Sriracha provides a similar level of heat and a bit of sweetness, making it a good alternative.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar texture and flavor, making it an easy swap.
paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a smoky depth to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
cumin - Substitute with caraway seeds: Caraway seeds offer a similar earthy flavor, though slightly more pungent.
coriander - Substitute with ground fennel: Ground fennel has a sweet, aromatic flavor that can mimic the taste of coriander.
sumac - Substitute with lemon zest: Lemon zest provides a similar tangy, citrusy flavor that sumac offers.
turmeric - Substitute with saffron: Saffron gives a similar color and a slightly different but complementary flavor.
fennel seeds - Substitute with anise seeds: Anise seeds have a similar licorice-like flavor, making them a good alternative.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a similar heat but with a slightly different flavor profile.
garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder provides a similar depth of flavor, though slightly sweeter.
cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg offers a warm, slightly sweet flavor that can complement the other spices.
mozzarella balls - Substitute with bocconcini: Bocconcini are small mozzarella balls that can be used interchangeably.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar fat content and a neutral flavor, making it a good alternative.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds saltiness along with a bit of umami, enhancing the overall flavor.
red pepper flake - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper provides a similar level of heat and can be used as a direct substitute.

Presenting Merguez Meatballs with Mozzarella

Serve smaller portion sizes: Create merguez meatballs that are bite-sized to ensure a refined and elegant presentation. This allows for a more controlled and sophisticated dining experience.
Use a pristine white plate: Choose a large, pristine white plate to make the colors of the meatballs and garnishes pop, enhancing the visual appeal.
Create a base of sauce: Spread a thin layer of harissa sauce or a yogurt-based sauce on the plate. This adds a burst of flavor and a beautiful contrast to the meatballs.
Arrange meatballs artfully: Place the meatballs in a circular or linear pattern, ensuring they are evenly spaced. This creates a visually appealing and balanced presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped parsley and a few whole fennel fronds around the plate to add a touch of freshness and color.
Add a touch of heat: Lightly dust the meatballs with red pepper flakes for an extra kick and a pop of red color.
Drizzle with olive oil: Finish with a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil over the meatballs and garnishes to add a glossy sheen and enhance the flavors.
Serve with a side of bread: Include a small, elegantly sliced piece of artisan bread on the side to complement the dish and provide a textural contrast.

Essential Tools for Making Merguez Meatballs

Large bowl: To combine the ground lamb with all the spices and herbs.
Knife: For mincing the garlic and chopping the parsley.
Cutting board: A surface to chop the garlic and parsley.
Measuring spoons: To measure out the harissa paste, spices, and salt accurately.
Hands: To mix the meat mixture gently without overworking it.
Sauté pan or skillet: For searing and cooking the meatballs.
Spoon: To turn the meatballs while they are cooking to ensure even browning.
Lid: To cover the pan and ensure the meatballs cook through.
Serving platter: To present the finished meatballs.
Tongs: Optional, for handling the meatballs while cooking.
Paper towels: To drain any excess oil from the meatballs after cooking.
Small bowl: To hold the mozzarella balls before stuffing them into the meatballs.

Storing and Freezing Merguez Meatballs with Mozzarella

Once the meatballs have cooled to room temperature, place them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze, arrange the cooled meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they are not touching each other. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 2 hours, or until the meatballs are frozen solid.
Transfer the frozen meatballs to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
Frozen merguez meatballs can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.
To reheat, place the frozen meatballs on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave the meatballs on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
If you plan to use the frozen meatballs in a sauce or soup, you can add them directly to the dish without thawing first. Simply adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the meatballs are heated through.

How To Reheat Leftover Merguez Meatballs with Mozzarella

To reheat leftover merguez meatballs in the oven, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. The mozzarella inside the meatballs will melt and become gooey again.
For a quicker reheating method, use the microwave. Place the meatballs on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. This will help prevent the meatballs from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful when biting into the meatballs, as the mozzarella center may be hot.
If you want to reheat the meatballs on the stovetop, place them in a skillet or saucepan with a tight-fitting lid. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to the pan to create steam and prevent the meatballs from drying out. Heat over medium-low heat for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
For a crispy exterior, reheat the meatballs in an air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the meatballs in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and crispy on the outside. This method will help restore the texture of the meatballs' exterior while keeping the mozzarella center melted and gooey.
If you have leftover tomato sauce or marinara sauce, reheat the meatballs in the sauce for added flavor and moisture. Place the meatballs and sauce in a saucepan and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This method will infuse the meatballs with extra flavor and keep them moist.

Interesting Fact About Merguez Meatballs with Mozzarella

A random fact about this recipe is that merguez is a spicy North African sausage traditionally made with lamb or beef, and it is flavored with a variety of spices including harissa, cumin, and coriander.

Is Making Merguez Meatballs at Home Cost-Effective?

The merguez meatballs with mozzarella recipe is moderately cost-effective. The use of ground lamb and mozzarella balls can be a bit pricey, but the spices and herbs like harissa paste, paprika, and cumin add immense flavor without breaking the bank. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $20-$25. Overall Verdict: 7/10.

Are Merguez Meatballs with Mozzarella Healthy or Unhealthy?

The merguez meatballs with mozzarella recipe is a delicious and flavorful dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to a few factors:

High in saturated fat: Ground lamb and mozzarella cheese are both high in saturated fat, which can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease when consumed in excess.
Sodium content: The recipe includes salt and harissa paste, which can contribute to a higher sodium intake. Excessive sodium consumption is linked to high blood pressure and other health issues.
Lack of vegetables: The recipe does not include any vegetables, which are essential for a balanced and nutritious meal.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Opt for a leaner ground meat, such as turkey or chicken, to reduce the saturated fat content.
Use a reduced-fat mozzarella cheese or a smaller amount of regular mozzarella to decrease the overall fat and calorie content.
Incorporate more vegetables into the dish, such as:
- Serving the meatballs over a bed of sautéed spinach or zucchini noodles
- Adding finely chopped vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or onions to the meatball mixture
Reduce the amount of added salt and rely more on the flavorful spices and herbs to season the dish.
Use whole wheat breadcrumbs or almond flour instead of regular breadcrumbs to increase the fiber content and provide a healthier binding agent for the meatballs.

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious version of the merguez meatballs with mozzarella while still enjoying the bold and satisfying flavors of the original recipe.

Editor's Opinion on Merguez Meatballs with Mozzarella

This recipe for merguez meatballs with mozzarella is a delightful fusion of bold flavors and textures. The combination of aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and sumac with the heat of harissa creates a rich, complex profile. The mozzarella adds a creamy surprise, balancing the spiciness. The technique of searing and then covering ensures a juicy, well-cooked meatball. Garnishing with chili flakes and parsley adds a fresh, vibrant finish. Overall, it's a well-thought-out dish that promises to be both flavorful and satisfying.

Enhance Your Merguez Meatballs With Mozzarella Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Root Vegetable Medley: Roasted Root Vegetable Medley: Imagine a colorful array of carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes, all caramelized to perfection. The natural sweetness of the vegetables pairs beautifully with the spicy, savory notes of the merguez meatballs.

Couscous with Dried Fruits and Nuts: Couscous with Dried Fruits and Nuts: Fluffy couscous studded with apricots, raisins, and toasted almonds. The sweetness and crunch provide a delightful contrast to the rich, spicy meatballs.

Garlic and Herb Flatbread: Garlic and Herb Flatbread: Warm, soft flatbread infused with garlic and fresh herbs. Perfect for mopping up any delicious juices from the meatballs and adding a comforting, aromatic touch to the meal.

Mint Yogurt Sauce: Mint Yogurt Sauce: A cool, creamy yogurt sauce with a hint of mint and a touch of lemon. This refreshing dip balances the heat of the harissa in the meatballs, offering a soothing contrast.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection and finished with a sprinkle of lemon zest. The bright, zesty flavor cuts through the richness of the meatballs, adding a fresh, vibrant element to the plate.

Similar Recipes to Merguez Meatballs with Mozzarella

Spicy Lamb Kofta with Tzatziki: Dive into the rich flavors of ground lamb spiced with cumin, coriander, and paprika. Serve these succulent koftas with a refreshing tzatziki sauce made from Greek yogurt, cucumber, and a hint of garlic. Perfect for a Mediterranean-inspired dinner.

Harissa-Spiced Lamb Burgers: Transform your burger game with these lamb patties infused with harissa paste, garlic, and parsley. Top with mozzarella and serve on a toasted bun with a side of sweet potato fries. A spicy twist on a classic favorite.

Moroccan Lamb Tagine: Experience the exotic flavors of Morocco with this slow-cooked lamb tagine. Infused with cinnamon, cumin, turmeric, and sumac, this dish is a symphony of spices. Serve with couscous and roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Lamb Meatball Pita Pockets: Stuff pita bread with juicy lamb meatballs seasoned with garlic, parsley, and fennel seeds. Add a dollop of hummus and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a quick and satisfying meal. Perfect for a Mediterranean-inspired lunch.

Lamb and Vegetable Skewers: Grill up some lamb skewers marinated in harissa paste, garlic, and olive oil. Pair with bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions for a colorful and flavorful barbecue treat. Serve with a side of mint yogurt sauce.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Merguez Meatballs with Mozzarella

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mini Peppers: Delight your guests with these vibrant stuffed mini peppers. Filled with a creamy blend of goat cheese and herbs, these bite-sized treats offer a burst of flavor in every bite. The sweetness of the peppers perfectly complements the tanginess of the cheese, creating a harmonious balance. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped chives and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elegant touch. Serve these colorful appetizers on a rustic wooden board for a visually appealing presentation.

Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus: Elevate your appetizer game with prosciutto-wrapped asparagus. The crisp asparagus spears are wrapped in thin slices of prosciutto, then roasted to perfection. The salty prosciutto crisps up beautifully, while the asparagus retains its tender crunch. A light drizzle of lemon juice and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese add a zesty and savory finish. Arrange these elegant bites on a platter with a side of garlic aioli for dipping, making them an irresistible starter for any gathering.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a rich, molten chocolate center encased in a delicate, fluffy cake. As you cut into it, the warm, gooey chocolate flows out, creating a delightful contrast with the light, airy texture of the cake. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra layer of indulgence. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh berries to add a touch of elegance and a burst of freshness.

Tiramisu: Envision layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers nestled between rich, creamy mascarpone cheese. Each bite offers a perfect balance of coffee flavor and sweet, velvety cream. Dust the top with a generous amount of cocoa powder and perhaps a few chocolate shavings for added texture. Serve chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a decadent dessert that's both refreshing and satisfying.

Why trust this Merguez Meatballs With Mozzarella Recipe:

This recipe combines the rich flavors of ground lamb and harissa paste with aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and sumac. The addition of mozzarella balls creates a delightful surprise in every bite. The careful searing ensures a perfect texture, while the final garnish of chili flakes and parsley adds a fresh and spicy finish. Trust this recipe for its balanced blend of spices and the unique twist of hidden mozzarella.

If you've tried this Merguez Meatballs With Mozzarella Recipe, we'd love to hear your thoughts! Share your experience, tips, and any tweaks you made in the Recipe Sharing forum.

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of meat instead of lamb?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground lamb with ground beef, turkey, or even chicken if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile might change slightly.

What is harissa paste and where can I find it?

Harissa paste is a spicy North African chili paste made from roasted red peppers, spices, and herbs. You can usually find it in the international aisle of most grocery stores or at specialty food stores.

How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?

The meatballs are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). If you don't have a meat thermometer, you can cut one open to check that the meat is no longer pink inside.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also freeze them for longer storage and cook them directly from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What can I serve with these meatballs?

These meatballs pair well with a variety of sides like couscous, rice, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with some pita bread and a yogurt-based sauce like tzatziki for a complete meal.