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Fried meatballs with tahini sauce: a delicious recipe

These fried meatballs with tahini sauce are a satisfying high-protein dish that delivers on both flavour and texture. Made with minced beef and fragrant garlic, these meatballs are seasoned with ground coriander and black pepper, creating a deliciously savoury bite. The crispy exterior, achieved through frying, gives way to a juicy centre, making them perfect for any mealtime craving.

Ideal for a family dinner or a protein-packed lunch, these meatballs are wonderfully versatile. Serve them drizzled with a creamy tahini sauce and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a zesty finish. This dish not only provides a hearty source of protein but also complements a balanced diet, making it a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire.

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Ingredients for Fried meatballs with tahini sauce

  • 120 g millet

  • 450 g minced beef (20% fat)

  • 5 garlic cloves, finely grated

  • 5 ml ground coriander

  • 5 ml freshly ground black pepper

  • 8 g kosher salt, plus more

  • 2,100 ml vegetable oil (for frying)

  • 120 g tahini

  • 1 garlic clove, finely grated

  • 45 ml fresh lemon juice

  • 1 deep-fry thermometer

How to make Fried meatballs with tahini sauce

  1. Dry-fry the millet in a medium frying pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and lightly toasted, about 3 minutes. Transfer to a small bowl and leave to cool.

  2. In a medium bowl, combine the minced beef, garlic, coriander, pepper, and 1½ tsp salt. Mix gently with your hands until just combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture.

  3. Working one at a time, roll the meat mixture loosely between your palms into balls approximately 4.5 cm in diameter (you should have about 18 meatballs). Place the balls on a rimmed baking tray.

  4. Roll each meatball in the toasted millet, pressing firmly to coat well. Repeat the process until all meatballs are coated. Chill the meatballs for at least 20 minutes and up to 2 hours to help the millet adhere during frying.

  5. Pour oil into a large heavy pot, ensuring it comes 4 cm up the sides. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 180°C, using a deep-fry thermometer to check the temperature.

  6. Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, combine the tahini and garlic. Gradually whisk in 6 tbsp water, followed by the lemon juice, until the sauce is smooth and pourable. Season with salt to taste.

  7. Using a slotted spoon, gently lower the meatballs into the hot oil and fry undisturbed for 2½ minutes, or until the millet is light golden.

  8. Transfer the fried meatballs to a baking tray lined with paper towels and season lightly with salt.

  9. Serve the meatballs warm, accompanied by the tahini sauce.

Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

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Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 7 Aug 2025 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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