Keto Parmesan-Coriander Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

1. 500g ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for juicier meatballs)
2. 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3. 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh coriander (cilantro)
4. 1 small onion, finely minced
5. 2 garlic cloves, minced
6. 1 egg
7. Salt and pepper, to taste
8. 1 tsp ground cumin (to enhance the fusion flavor)
9. 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional for a touch of heat)
10. Zest of 1 lemon

For the Tomato Sauce:

1. 2 tbsp olive oil
2. 1 small onion, chopped
3. 2 garlic cloves, minced
4. 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes (preferably no-sugar-added)
5. 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh coriander
6. Salt and pepper, to taste
7. 1/2 tsp ground cumin
8. 1/4 tsp red chili flakes
9. 1/2 tsp dried oregano
10. A splash of apple cider vinegar (for added tang)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatballs:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine ground meat, Parmesan cheese, coriander, minced onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, ground cumin, chili flakes, and lemon zest.
   • Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
   • Shape into golf ball-sized meatballs and set aside.
2. Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
   • In a skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
   • Add minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds.
   • Pour in the crushed tomatoes. Stir in the spices: salt, pepper, cumin, chili flakes, and oregano.
   • Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a splash of water or broth to adjust consistency.
   • Stir in the chopped coriander and a splash of apple cider vinegar. Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed.
3. Cook the Meatballs:
   • In a separate skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides.
   • Once browned, add the meatballs to the simmering tomato sauce. Let them cook in the sauce for another 10-15 minutes or until fully cooked through.
4. Serve:
   • Plate the meatballs with generous tomato sauce. Garnish with additional chopped coriander and grated Parmesan cheese.
   • For an enhanced keto meal, serve these meatballs over zucchini noodles or your favorite keto-friendly side.

Enjoy your adventurous fusion of flavors in this keto meatball dish!