Omani-style Meatballs with Spiced Tomato Sauce

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Polish Klopsiki recipe is transformed into an Omani delight by incorporating Omani spices and flavors. The original recipe typically uses ingredients like breadcrumbs, onions, and garlic, while the Omani version replaces these with a blend of aromatic spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cumin. Additionally, the meatballs are cooked in a spiced tomato sauce, which adds a rich and tangy flavor to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Klopsiki, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 400g (14 oz) canned diced tomatoes 400g (14 oz) canned diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon sugar
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 5g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, ground cardamom, ground cinnamon, ground cumin, salt, and black 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, about 5 minutes.
4. 4.
   Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
5. 5.
   In the same skillet, add the canned diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and sugar. Stir well to combine.
6. 6.
   Bring the tomato sauce to a simmer and return the meatballs to the skillet.
7. 7.
   Cover the skillet and let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
8. 8.
   Serve the Omani-style meatballs hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. They can be enjoyed with fragrant basmati rice or warm flatbread.

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 beef and lamb.
• Canned diced tomatoes — Opt for high-quality canned diced tomatoes to ensure a flavorful sauce.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili powder or red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture.
• If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend the canned diced tomatoes before adding them to the skillet.
• Serve the meatballs with a side of yogurt sauce or tzatziki for a refreshing contrast to the spices.

Serving advice

Serve the Omani-style meatballs hot, accompanied by fragrant basmati rice or warm flatbread. Garnish with fresh cilantro for added freshness and color.

Presentation advice

Arrange the meatballs on a platter, spooning the spiced tomato sauce over them. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro for an attractive presentation.