Youvarlakia Me Domates (MeatBalls in Tomato Sauce)

Delicious rice studded meatballs swimming in a tasty tomato sauce. The ease of preparation makes this recipe a real winner.

I was honored when a friend and her daughter made 200 of these meatballs for a special international open house at her daughter’s school. I heard later that they were a big hit.

Susan Tweeton

Ingredients

Meatballs:

• 1-pound ground beef
• 1/2 onion, finely minced
• 1 garlic clove, finely minced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried dill weed
• 1/2 teaspoon dried mint (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
• 1/3 cup uncooked long grain white rice
• 1 egg, beaten
• Flour for dredging

Sauce:

• 3 cups water or broth
• 1 8-ounce can tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Directions

Meatball Preparation:

1. In large bowl, combine meat, onion, garlic, herbs, salt, pepper, parsley, rice and egg.
2. Mix thoroughly.
3. Shape into approximately 1-inch balls.
4. Dust meatballs lightly with flour.

Soup Preparation:

1. In a large soup pot, bring water or broth, oil and salt to a boil. 
2. Drop meatballs, one by one, into boiling liquid. 
3. Cover and simmer over medium-low heat for about 35 minutes.
4. Add more water or broth if necessary. 
5. Test a meatball to make sure rice is completely tender.
6. Remove from heat and serve.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with crusty bread, rice pasta or potatoes.