Mozzarella-stuffed meatballs on a bed of delicious potatoes

 

Ingredients

 

For the Meatballs

• 1 kg ground beef (halal-certified)
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella, cut into small cubes
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin

For the Potatoes

• 1 kg medium-sized potatoes, cut into wedges
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 2 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped

For Coating

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• Additional oil for frying

Preparation Steps

Preparing the Meatballs

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine:
   • Ground beef
   • Chopped onion
   • Minced garlic
   • Chopped parsley
   • Breadcrumbs
   • Eggs
   • Salt, pepper, paprika, and cumin
2. Mix thoroughly but gently to avoid tough meatballs
3. Divide the mixture into equal portions (about 12-15 meatballs)
4. Flatten each portion and place a cube of mozzarella in the center
5. Carefully seal the meatball, ensuring the cheese is completely enclosed

Coating the Meatballs

1. Prepare three shallow dishes:
   • First dish: Flour
   • Second dish: Beaten eggs
   • Third dish: Breadcrumbs
2. Roll each meatball in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs
3. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to help coating stick

Preparing the Potatoes

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C)
2. In a large bowl, toss potato wedges with:
   • Olive oil
   • Oregano
   • Thyme
   • Garlic powder
   • Salt and pepper
3. Spread potatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes, turning once halfway through

Cooking the Meatballs

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat
2. Fry meatballs in batches until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per side)
3. Finish cooking in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes

Serving

1. Arrange roasted potatoes on a large serving platter
2. Place mozzarella-stuffed meatballs on top of the potatoes
3. Garnish with fresh rosemary and additional chopped parsley
4. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce

Chef's Tips

• Ensure meat is halal-certified
• Use fresh ingredients for best flavor
• Do not overmix the meatball mixture
• Seal meatballs carefully to prevent cheese leakage
• Let meatballs rest after coating to help breading stick

Halal Considerations

• Use only halal-certified beef
• Ensure all ingredients are halal
• Use separate cutting boards and utensils for meat
• Clean all cooking surfaces thoroughly

Nutritional Note

• Serves 4-6 people
• Approximate cooking time: 1 hour
• Can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before final cooking