Grass Pea Meatballs with Tomato Sauce
In this legume-forward dish, grass pea meatballs meld tenderly with a vibrant tomato sauce, showcasing how legumes can be transformed into elegant, protein-rich bites that speak of Mediterranean soulfulness.
Ingredients for the meatballs
- 400 g cooked and drained grass peas
- 100–120 g flour
- A little extra flour for coating before frying
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 ripe tomato, pureed
- Oregano
- Salt
- Pepper
- Olive oil
Preparation for the meatballs
- Place the grass peas in a pot, cover with water, and boil for 10 minutes over medium heat. Leave them in the hot water for another 10 minutes, then drain in a colander.
- Transfer to a bowl, mash with a potato masher, and add the flour, onion, garlic, tomato, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Knead until you have a firm mixture that can be shaped without breaking.
- Heat olive oil in a frying pan.
- Shape the mixture into oblong meatballs, roll them lightly in flour, and place them on a platter.
- When the oil is hot, fry them for 2 minutes on each side, just until they take on some color.
Ingredients for the sauce
- 4 ripe tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 50 g water
- Oregano
- Salt
- Pepper
- Sweet paprika
- 2 sprigs fresh basil, finely chopped
- Olive oil
Preparation for the sauce
Carefully add the meatballs and let them simmer over medium heat for 20–25 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
Heat olive oil in a pot and sauté the onion, garlic, and tomatoes.
Add the water, oregano, salt, pepper, paprika, and basil, and bring to a boil.
A Savory Legume Elixir
Grass pea meatballs (made from cooked, mashed grass peas mixed with herbs, onions, and binding ingredients) are gently poached in a rich tomato sauce flavored with onions, garlic, olive oil, and aromatic herbs until they absorb the tang and depth of the sauce.
Why It’s Irresistible
These meatballs offer an earthy, nutty legume flavor with a tender center and tomato-infused warmth. Each bite brings satisfying comfort, combining rustic simplicity with refined character.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and accompanied by crusty bread, rice, or creamy mashed potatoes. These meatballs shine as a vegetarian main or as part of a wholesome meze spread.
Learn More About the Power of Legumes!
Curious about the history, benefits, and global significance of legumes? Click here to read our detailed description on DeliciousPath and discover why these humble ingredients are a cornerstone of healthy and flavorful cooking. Don’t miss out!
