Turkish Meatballs with Pita Bread & Hummus

A symphony of Mediterranean flavours, a tantalizing starter that will transport you to the heart of Istanbul...

Enjoy your healthy Turkish Meatballs with Hummus and pita bread!

serving 4 People

time 70 min

INGREDIENTS

• 200 grams chickpeas, dried

• 50 ml tahini

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 clove garlic

• 200 grams minced lamb

• 1 small onion

• 50 grams bread crumbs

• 1 egg

• 8 small pita wraps

• 50 grams yogurt

• 10 grams fresh mint

• 1 lemon

• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Cook

1. Soak chickpeas overnight in a large bowl filled with plenty of water. This step is crucial as it allows the chickpeas to absorb water, which softens them and reduces their cooking time significantly. Make sure the water level is several inches above the chickpeas, as they will expand as they soak. It is advisable to use dried chickpeas rather than canned for the best texture and flavor.

2. After soaking, thoroughly rinse the chickpeas under cold running water to remove any impurities. Then, transfer them to a pot and cover with fresh water. Bring the water to a boil, and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the chickpeas until they are tender, which usually takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on their age and size. You can check their doneness by tasting a few; they should be soft but not mushy. If you prefer a quicker method, you can use a pressure cooker to speed up the cooking process.

3. Once the chickpeas are cooked and tender, drain them and let them cool slightly. Then, mash or blend the chickpeas in a food processor until they reach a smooth and creamy consistency. To this mixture, add tahini, which contributes a rich, nutty flavor, along with olive oil for creaminess, minced garlic for a kick of flavor, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Blend until all ingredients are well combined and the hummus is velvety. Adjust the seasoning as needed, and if the mixture is too thick, you can add a little water or lemon juice to achieve your desired consistency.

4. In a separate mixing bowl, combine minced lamb with finely chopped onion, bread crumbs, a beaten egg, and season with salt and pepper. The bread crumbs help bind the mixture together while adding a bit of texture. Mix the ingredients thoroughly with your hands or a spoon until well incorporated. The egg acts as a binding agent, ensuring that the meatballs hold their shape during cooking. You can also add spices such as cumin or coriander for extra flavor, depending on your taste preferences.

5. Once the mixture is well combined, take small portions and shape them into meatballs, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a generous amount of oil. Fry the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook them until they are golden brown on all sides, which should take about 8 to 10 minutes. Once cooked, transfer the meatballs to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

6. To serve, warm pita wraps in a dry skillet or microwave until they are soft and pliable. Spread a generous layer of the creamy hummus on each pita, then place the golden-brown meatballs on top. Alternatively, you can serve the meatballs on the side, allowing everyone to create their own wraps. This dish is perfect for sharing and can be accompanied by a variety of sides and dips.

7. Top your pita wraps or plates with a dollop of creamy yogurt, which adds a refreshing tang, and sprinkle with fresh mint leaves for a burst of flavor. Adding lemon wedges on the side not only enhances the dish visually but also provides a zesty kick that complements the richness of the meat and hummus beautifully. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top just before serving for an extra layer of flavor.

8. Alternatively, for those who enjoy a bit of heat and a different flavor profile, you can prepare a spicy tomato sauce by sautéing chopped tomatoes with chili peppers and garlic in olive oil. Allow the sauce to simmer until it thickens and the flavors meld together. This sauce can be served alongside the meatballs or drizzled on top for an exciting twist that brings a new depth of flavor to your meal!

Turkish Meatballs with Hummus

PROTIPS

For a smoother hummus, blend it until it reaches your desired consistency.

To make the meatballs even more flavorful, try adding a touch of cumin or coriander to the meat mixture.