Ingredients:
1 lb lean ground beef
1/2 lb ground veal or turkey
1/2 cup breadcrumbs soaked in 1/4 cup whole milk
1 egg
3 Tbsp Easy Exotic™ Mediterraneo Spice Blend
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup finely minced fresh parsley
1/2 cup finely diced onions or shallots
1/2 cup olive oil
1 15-oz can crushed San Marzano tomatoes
1 cup chicken or vegetable stock
Pinch of sugar (optional)
1/2 cup ripped fresh basil or additional parsley
Directions:
In a bowl, combine ground meats, soaked breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, onions, salt, red chili flakes, and 2 Tbsp Mediterraneo spice blend together; form into golf ball size (1-1/2”) meatballs coating your hands with a touch of oil so they don’t become sticky.
Heat 1/4 cup olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Gently place meatballs in single layer, being careful not to crown them. Fry covered for about 15-20 minutes turning at least once with tongs. Set aside on paper towel to drain excess oil.
In a deep skillet, heat 1/4 cup olive oil on medium heat; add the tomatoes, stock and remaining 1 Tbsp Mediterraneo spice blend and gently stir. Let this cook for 6-8 minutes covered, stirring occasionally. If the sauce is very tart, add a pinch of sugar, about 1/4 tsp. Add salt to taste if needed, then gently drop in the meatball and stir to coat them. Now reduce heat to medium-low and when heated through stir in fresh basil. Serve hot as a main course with crusty oven-toasted bread and fresh green salad. These are great for sandwiches the next day.
