Devon-style Spiced Meatballs

Ingredients

In this Devon-inspired adaptation of Dawood Basha, we incorporate the unique flavors of Devon cuisine. The original Lebanese dish is typically made with ground beef, onions, and spices, cooked in a tomato-based sauce. However, in this recipe, we infuse the meatballs with Devon's distinct flavors by adding ingredients like cider vinegar and brown sugar to the sauce, giving it a slightly sweet and tangy taste that complements the spices perfectly. We alse have the original recipe for Dawood basha, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat) 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons cider vinegar 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 15g, 8g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, cayenne pepper (if using), Worcestershire sauce, 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 a drizzle of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
4. 4.
   In the same skillet, add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, cider vinegar, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. 5.
   Return the meatballs to the skillet, making sure they are submerged in the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
6. 6.
   Serve the Devon-style spiced meatballs hot, garnished with fresh parsley. They pair perfectly with mashed potatoes or crusty bread.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef — Use lean ground beef for healthier meatballs. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can use a combination of ground beef and ground pork.
• Worcestershire sauce — If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, you can substitute it with soy sauce or balsamic vinegar for a similar umami flavor.
• Cider vinegar — Apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute for cider vinegar if needed.
• Crushed tomatoes — If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can use tomato passata instead of crushed tomatoes.

Tips & Tricks

• For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice to the meatball mixture.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a chopped chili pepper to the sauce.
• To save time, you can make the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them until ready to cook.
• Leftover meatballs and sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and make a delicious sandwich filling.

Serving advice

Serve the Devon-style spiced meatballs over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. A side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad would complement the dish perfectly.

Presentation advice

Garnish the meatballs with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to add a pop of color. Serve them in a shallow bowl, allowing the sauce to pool around the meatballs for an appetizing presentation.