Cumin-Spiced Lamb Meatballs with Cilantro Yogurt Dip

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Juicy lamb meatballs seasoned with aromatic cumin and warm spices, served with a fresh cilantro yogurt dip for a vibrant contrast. This middle eastern-inspired lamb ready in about 30 minutes blends ground lamb, ground cumin, ground coriander into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 380 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Middle Eastern cuisine 380 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine 1 lb ground lamb with 1 tbsp ground cumin, 1 tsp ground coriander, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1/2 tsp red chili flakes, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
  2. Step 2: Shape mixture into 16 small meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
  3. Step 3: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through.
  4. Step 4: Meanwhile, stir together 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt, 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh cilantro, and 1 tbsp lemon juice in a small bowl.
  5. Step 5: Serve warm meatballs with cilantro yogurt dip on the side for dipping.

Equipment for this recipe

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Cumin-Spiced Lamb Meatballs with Cilantro Yogurt Dip take to make?

Total time is about 30 minutes (15 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Cumin-Spiced Lamb Meatballs with Cilantro Yogurt Dip?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Cumin-Spiced Lamb Meatballs with Cilantro Yogurt Dip?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Cumin-Spiced Lamb Meatballs with Cilantro Yogurt Dip for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Cumin-Spiced Lamb Meatballs with Cilantro Yogurt Dip?

Middle Eastern lamb like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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