Can I use ground beef instead of the Italian sausage mince?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef, lamb, pork or a combination of ground meats for the Italian sausage mince. However this will change the flavour of the meatballs. Adding seasonings such as fennel, paprika and garlic to the ground meat, will achieve a similar flavour.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Parmesan?

Yes, you can use a different type of cheese, such as pecorino romano, instead of Parmesan. However, this will also change the flavour of the dish.

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them?

Yes, you can make the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them for up to 3 months. To do this, simply prepare the meatballs as directed in the recipe, then arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the meatballs to a resealable freezer bag and store them in the freezer until ready to use. Defrost overnight in a fridge, it is not recommended to defrost the meatballs at room temperature.

Can I use canned tomato sauce instead of crushed tomatoes?

Yes, you can use canned tomato sauce instead of crushed tomatoes if that is what you have on hand. However, this may change the texture of the sauce.

Can I use a different type of herb instead of the fresh oregano?

Yes, you can use a different type of herb, such as fresh basil or thyme, instead of the oregano if you prefer. However, this will change the flavor of the dish.

Mediterranean Meatballs with Couscous

Name: Mediterranean Meatballs with Parmesan and Couscous
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 700g Italian sausage mince (Lamb or Beef); 1 Brown onion, coarsely grated; 2 Cloves of garlic, peeled and crushed; 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs; 1/3 cup Parsley leaves, chopped; 2 tbs Oregano leaves, chopped; 100g Parmesan cheese, grated; 2 Eggs, lightly whisked; Salt and pepper to taste; 3 tbs Olive oil; 2 cans Crushed tomatoes; 1 cup Chicken stock; 300g Couscous

Description

A hearty and delicious meal that’s easy to make, these meatballs are the perfect choice. Made with fresh oregano, Parmesan cheese, and couscous, this recipe is packed with flavour and sure to satisfy.

Ingredients

Units Scale

700g Italian sausage mince (Lamb or Beef)
1 Brown onion, coarsely grated
2 Cloves of garlic, peeled and crushed
1/2 cup Breadcrumbs
1/3 cup Parsley leaves, chopped
2 tbs Oregano leaves, chopped
100g Parmesan cheese, grated
2 Eggs, lightly whisked
Salt and pepper to taste
3 tbs Olive oil
2 cans Crushed tomatoes
1 cup Chicken stock
300g Couscous

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 180 fan-forced

Combine mince, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, half or oregano, half of parmesan cheese, eggs and seasonings in a bowl. Roll 2 tbs amount of mixture into balls.
Heat the oil in an ovenproof frying pan and cook the meatballs for 5 minutes or until just browned. Pour over the tomatoes, stock and remaining oregano. Cover with ovenproof lid or foil and bake for 10 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for a further 15 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through.
Meanwhile cook the couscous as per packet directions
Serve the meatballs and sauce with the couscous. Sprinkle over the parmesan cheese and parsley.

Notes

Meatballs: there is no shame in using store-bought meatballs, turning this recipe, into the world easiest meatball recipe!
Italian sausage mince: If you are unable to find Italian sausage mince, you can easily substitute it with meat from Italian sausage. Simply remove the sausage casings and use the sausage meat in place of the mince. To do this, follow these instructions:
1. Choose the type of Italian sausage you prefer, such as sweet or spicy.
2. Using a sharp knife, cut along the length of the sausage casing, being careful not to cut into the meat.
3. Gently peel away the casing from the sausage meat, being careful not to break up the meat too much.
4. Discard the casings and use the sausage meat in place of the Italian sausage mince in the recipe.
Tomato base sauce: to add some extra magic to this meatball recipe, replace the the canned crushed tomatoes with your favourite homemade or store-bought pasta sauce.

Prep Time: 10
Cook Time: 25
Category: Meat
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 638g
Calories: 900
Protein: 61.3g