Maasai-style Meatballs with Rabbit Sauce

Ingredients

In this Maasai adaptation, we have replaced the traditional pork or beef meatballs with a mixture of ground beef and Maasai spices. Additionally, we have incorporated Maasai herbs and spices into the rabbit sauce, giving it a unique flavor profile that reflects the Maasai cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Boulets sauce lapin à la Liègeoise, so you can check it out.

• Meatballs: Meatballs:
• 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef
• 1 tablespoon Maasai spice blend (a mixture of coriander, cumin, turmeric, and chili powder) 1 tablespoon Maasai spice blend (a mixture of coriander, cumin, turmeric, and chili powder)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Rabbit Sauce: Rabbit Sauce:
• 1 rabbit, cut into pieces 1 rabbit, cut into pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Maasai herb blend (a mixture of thyme, rosemary, and oregano) 1 tablespoon Maasai herb blend (a mixture of thyme, rosemary, and oregano)
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 2 cups (470ml) beef broth 2 cups (470ml) beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 3g
• Protein: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, Maasai spice blend, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about the size of a golf ball.
3. 3.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
4. 4.
   In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
5. 5.
   Add the Maasai herb blend and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes start to soften.
6. 6.
   Return the meatballs to the skillet and pour in the beef broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. 7.
   Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
8. 8.
   Serve the Maasai-style meatballs with rabbit sauce hot, accompanied by your choice of side dishes.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef — Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option. If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can use a combination of ground beef and ground lamb.
• Maasai spice blend — You can adjust the spice level according to your preference by adding more or less chili powder.
• Rabbit — If rabbit meat is not available, you can substitute it with chicken or turkey.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, marinate the ground beef with the Maasai spice blend for a few hours before shaping the meatballs.
• If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend the cooked tomatoes before adding them to the skillet.
• Serve the Maasai-style meatballs with a side of ugali (a traditional Maasai cornmeal dish) or steamed rice for a complete meal.

Serving advice

Garnish the Maasai-style meatballs with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve them hot to fully enjoy the flavors and aromas.

Presentation advice

Arrange the meatballs on a platter and pour the rabbit sauce over them. Sprinkle some chopped herbs on top for an attractive presentation. Serve with a side of ugali or steamed rice.