Lamb Meatballs with Tahini Dipping Sauce

These lamb meatballs with tahini sauce are a flavorful Mediterranean-inspired recipe made with ground lamb, warm spices, garlic, and lemon zest, then grilled until perfectly browned. Served with a creamy tahini dipping sauce, fresh pita bread, and a simple tomato and cucumber salad, this dish works well for weeknight dinners, grilled kebab platters, or mezze spreads. The combination of juicy lamb meatballs, aromatic spices, and smooth tahini sauce creates a balanced and hearty Middle Eastern style meatball recipe that pairs perfectly with fresh herbs and feta cheese.

Ingredients

For the Tahini Sauce

• 1 garlic clove, finely grated
• Juice of 1 lemon (about ¼ cup), plus more to taste
• ⅓ cup tahini
• Pinch of ground cumin
• Salt, to taste
• Cold water, as needed

For the Meatballs

• 1 lb (450 g) ground lamb
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest (from about ½ lemon)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 garlic cloves, finely grated
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• ½ small red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
• Olive oil, as needed

For Serving

• Fresh pita bread
• Diced tomatoes
• Diced cucumbers
• Sliced red onion
• Olive oil, for drizzling
• Feta cheese, crumbled
• Fresh dill

Instructions

Prepare the Tahini Sauce

1. In a medium bowl, combine the grated garlic, lemon juice, tahini, cumin, and salt.
2. Whisk the mixture until combined.
3. Add cold water one tablespoon at a time, whisking continuously. The sauce may thicken at first—keep whisking and gradually adding water until it becomes smooth and pourable.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning with extra lemon juice or salt if needed. Set aside.

Make the Meatballs

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb, lemon zest, salt, grated garlic, paprika, cumin, cinnamon, and coriander.
2. Mix gently with clean hands until the ingredients are evenly combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
3. Preheat a grill to medium-high heat.
4. Lightly oil your hands and shape the mixture into 12–14 small meatballs.
5. Thread the meatballs onto skewers, placing pieces of red onion between each meatball and at the ends of the skewer. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and turn to coat.
6. Grill the skewers, turning occasionally, until the meatballs are nicely charred on the outside and cooked through. They are best when medium-well with a slightly pink center.
7. Remove from the grill and serve immediately with the tahini sauce, warm pita bread, diced tomatoes, cucumbers, sliced red onion, feta cheese, and fresh dill.

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Tips

• Avoid overmixing: Mixing the lamb too much can make the meatballs dense and tough.
• Oil your hands: Lightly oiling your hands makes shaping the meatballs easier.
• Use metal or soaked wooden skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
• Control the heat: Medium-high heat gives the meatballs a nice char while keeping the inside juicy.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Different meat: Ground beef, turkey, or chicken can replace lamb.
• Oven method: Bake the meatballs at 200°C (400°F) for about 15–18 minutes if you don’t have a grill.
• Herb addition: Mix chopped parsley, mint, or cilantro into the meat mixture for extra freshness.
• Spice variation: Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne for heat.

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FAQs

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes. Shape the meatballs up to 24 hours in advance and keep them covered in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Can I cook these in a skillet instead of grilling?
Yes. Cook the meatballs in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until browned and cooked through.

How do I store leftovers?
Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can the tahini sauce be prepared ahead?
Yes. The sauce can be made 1–2 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Stir before serving and add a little water if it thickens.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve the meatballs inside warm pita bread with vegetables and tahini sauce.
• Pair with Mediterranean salads such as cucumber and tomato salad.
• Add hummus or baba ghanoush for a complete mezze-style meal.
• Serve over rice, couscous, or grain bowls with fresh herbs.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Mediterranean flavors from warm spices and fresh herbs.
• Juicy, tender meatballs with a smoky grilled finish.
• Creamy tahini sauce adds a rich and tangy balance.
• Versatile dish that works for lunch, dinner, or gatherings.
• Great for sharing, especially as part of a mezze spread.