Ethiopian Coffee-Infused Spiced Lamb Meatballs

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-08-08 · Updated 2026-08-08

Tender lamb meatballs seasoned with Ethiopian coffee and warming spices, pan-seared and served with a spiced tomato dipping sauce. This Ethiopian-inspired lamb recipe, ready in about 40 minutes, pairs ground lamb, freshly brewed strong Ethiopian coffee, garlic cloves for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 400 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. 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.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground lamb
• 1/4 cup, cooled freshly brewed strong Ethiopian coffee
• 3, minced garlic cloves
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp berbere spice blend
• 1 small, finely chopped red onion
• 1 large egg
• 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp honey
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

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Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine 1 lb ground lamb, 1/4 cup cooled freshly brewed strong Ethiopian coffee, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp ground coriander, 1 tsp berbere spice blend, 1 small finely chopped red onion, 1 large egg, 1/3 cup breadcrumbs, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
2. Step 2: Shape the mixture into 16 evenly sized meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
3. Step 3: Heat 3 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
4. Step 4: Remove the meatballs and set aside. In the same skillet, add 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes, 1 tsp honey, and 1 tbsp lemon juice. Simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Step 5: Return the meatballs to the skillet and spoon the sauce over them. Cook together for 2 minutes to meld flavors. Serve warm with flatbread or rice.