Meatballs with Rice and Tomato Basil Sauce

Let's make something lovely.

1. 01

   Prepare the Meatballs:

2. 02

   Grate one small onion and one small tomato using a fine grater.

3. 03

   In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated onion, ground lamb or beef (or a mixture of both),1 teaspoon salt, 1/4 ground black pepper, breadcrumbs, grated tomato, and the egg.

4. 04

   Mix the ingredients together until well combined. Shape the mixture into meatballs about the size of golf balls.

5. 05

   Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoon of oil. Cook the meatballs in batches for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Set aside.

6. 06

   Cook the Rice:

7. 07

   while the meatballs are getting ready, in a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to boil.

8. 08

   Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes (for white rice) or 35-40 minutes (for brown rice), until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and keep warm.

9. 09

   Prepare the Tomato Basil Sauce:

10. 10

    In a new or the same skillet used to cook the meatballs, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.

11. 11

    Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

12. 12

    Stir in the canned crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Mix well.

13. 13

    Add the chopped basil leaves, dried parsley, salt and black pepper to your taste. Stir to combine.

14. 14

    Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

15. 15

    Combine and Serve:

16. 16

    Add the cooked meatballs to the tomato basil sauce, turning to coat them evenly. Let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.

17. 17

    Serve the meatballs and sauce over a bed of warm rice.

18. 18

    Garnish with additional fresh basil or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.