Chef James Eddington Lamb Kofta Meatballs with Smooth White Bean Puree & Herb Gremolata

  • Prep time 25Min
  • Cook time 15Min
  • Technique Pan Fry / Saute
  • Meat Lamb
  • Cut Ground
  • Serves 4

Spiced Aussie lamb kofta meatballs served over silky white bean purée and finished with a bright herb gremolata for a fresh, Mediterranean-inspired finish.

Ingredients

Lamb Kofta Meatballs 

  • 1 lb ground lamb
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • ¼ cup parsley, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp onion, finely chopped or grated
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground ginger
  • ½ tsp ground turmeric
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (or to taste)
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Smooth White Bean Purée

  • 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove
  • Juice of ½ lemon
  • ¼ tsp kosher salt, or to taste
  • 3-5 tbsp warm water

Herb Gremolata

  • ¼ cup parsley, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp cilantro, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp mint, finely chopped (optional)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 small garlic clove, finely minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Pinch of kosher salt

Method

Lamb Kofta Meatballs 

  1. In a large bowl, gently combine the ground lamb, garlic, parsley, onion, spices, salt, pepper, and olive oil until just mixed.
  2. Roll into golf ball-sized meatballs.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the meatballs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
  4. Remove from the pan and let rest for a few minutes.

Smooth White Bean Purée

  1. Combine the cannellini beans, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt in a blender or food processor.
  2. Blend until smooth, adding warm water a little at a time until silky and spreadable.
  3. For an extra-smooth finish, pass the purée through a fine-mesh sieve. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Herb Gremolata

  1. In a small bowl, combine the parsley, cilantro, mint (if using), lemon zest, garlic, olive oil, and salt.
  2. Mix well and let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving.

To Plate

  1. Spread a generous layer of white bean purée onto each plate.
  2. Arrange the lamb kofta meatballs over the purée.
  3. Spoon the herb gremolata over the meatballs.
  4. Finish with a drizzle of olive oil and serve immediately.