Print

Turkish Meatballs Yogurt Sauce

Turkish Meatballs with Yogurt Sauce – Juicy, Spiced & Creamy Perfection!
Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A delicious and flavorful dish featuring Turkish meatballs served with a creamy yogurt sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs Ground Beef (or Lamb, or a mix)
  • 1 medium Onion, finely grated
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs
  • 1 large Egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dried Oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
  • Salt and Black Pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
  • 2 cups Plain Yogurt (Greek or Turkish style)
  • 2–3 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Dill, finely chopped
  • Salt and Black Pepper to taste
  • Cooked Rice or Pita Bread
  • Fresh Mint Leaves
  • Extra Olive Oil
  • Aleppo Pepper Flakes (Pul Biber)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, grated onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, chopped parsley, cumin, paprika, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  2. Cook a small amount of the mixture in a pan until browned. Taste and adjust the salt, pepper, or spices as needed.
  3. Roll the mixture into 1-1.5 inch meatballs. Lightly wet your hands with cold water to prevent sticking. Place on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  4. Chill the meatballs for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to help them hold their shape.
  5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  6. Add the meatballs to the skillet and brown on all sides, turning occasionally, until cooked through (8-10 minutes). The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C). Cook in batches if necessary.
  7. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  8. In a medium bowl, combine the yogurt, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, chopped dill, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
  9. Taste the yogurt sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed.
  10. Chill the yogurt sauce for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  11. Warm rice or pita bread according to package instructions.
  12. Place a serving of rice or pita bread on each plate. Top with the cooked meatballs and spoon the yogurt sauce over the meatballs.
  13. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, a drizzle of extra olive oil, and a sprinkle of Aleppo pepper flakes.
  14. Serve the Turkish Meatballs with Yogurt Sauce immediately.

Notes

  • Chilling the meatballs helps them hold their shape while cooking.
  • You can substitute ground lamb for ground beef for a different flavor.
  • Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your preference.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.spiritsdrink.com/turkish-meatballs-yogurt-sauce-recipe/