Home > Le Creuset's Recipes > Feta-stuffed meatballs in tomato sauce
Feta-stuffed meatballs in tomato sauce
Indulge in the flavors of Greek cuisine with these delectable meatballs, generously filled with feta cheese and simmered in a rich tomato sauce. Each bite offers a delightful combination of savory meat, fragrant herbs, and the irresistible saltiness of feta cheese. This dish pairs perfectly with pasta, buttered rice, or even crusty bread, making it a versatile and satisfying meal option. For an extra touch of freshness, feel free to prepare the sauce using juicy, ripe tomatoes when they are in season.
- Product used: Round Casserole 20cm Thyme
- Cooking time: Less than 2 hours
Ingredients
(6 pieces)
<Meatballs>
- Ground meat - 450g
(A)
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon oregano leaves
- 1 tablespoon garlic
- Breadcrumbs - 1/2 cup
- 3 tablespoons white wine
- 130 g feta cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Pepper - to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
<Tomato sauce>
- Canned whole tomatoes - 400g
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 cup consomme soup
- Bouquet garni (bay leaf, thyme, oregano) - to taste
Preparation
- Divide the feta cheese into 6 equal pieces.
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, mix ground meat with (A), breadcrumbs and white wine.
2. Divide the meatballs into 6 equal portions (each portion weighs about 75g).
3. Gently crush the center of the divided meatballs, add the feta cheese and roll them up. Dip your hand in olive oil and gently roll the meatballs, allowing any trapped air to escape to prevent cracks from forming.
4. Heat olive oil in the pot, then add the meatballs before turning on the heat.
5. Cook the meatballs over low heat, stirring gently from time to time to avoid burning.
6. Once the surface of the meatballs turns white, increase the heat to medium and cook, rolling them around to ensure even browning on all sides.
7. When the meatballs have browned, add the tomato sauce ingredients, cover the pot, and simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes.
8. After 10 minutes, remove the lid and continue simmering over low heat for an additional 15 minutes to allow excess liquid to evaporate.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and if desired, garnish with herbs.
