Are you craving a flavorful and satisfying meal that's also quick to prepare? Look no further! This Greek minced meat recipe is a delicious and healthy option perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. It's packed with fresh herbs, juicy tomatoes, and tender minced meat, creating a symphony of Mediterranean flavors that will transport you straight to a sun-drenched Greek taverna. This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for easy customization to your taste preferences. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this easy recipe is guaranteed to impress!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground lamb (or a mix of lamb and beef)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional, can substitute with extra tomato juice)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Cooked rice or crusty bread, for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Add the ground lamb to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, red wine (if using), oregano, basil, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 20 minutes, or longer for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded, stir in the fresh parsley. Serve hot over cooked rice or with crusty bread for dipping. This delicious and healthy meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, or a more leisurely weekend meal.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Add vegetables: Incorporate chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Make it vegetarian: Replace the ground lamb with lentils or crumbled firm tofu for a hearty vegetarian version.
- Use fresh herbs: If you have fresh oregano and basil on hand, use about twice the amount as called for in the recipe. The fresh herb flavor is far superior!
- Adjust the consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little water or more tomato juice. If it's too thin, simmer uncovered for a longer period to allow the sauce to reduce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This Greek minced meat recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking that delivers big on flavor. It's a healthy meal, perfect for those looking for delicious dishes and the best recipes without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy!