Meatballs and chickpeas in tomato sauce

3 servings

70 minutes

Meatballs and chickpeas in tomato sauce is a harmonious combination of tender minced meat, aromatic spices, and rich tomato sauce. This dish, inspired by European cuisine, combines the warmth of home-cooked meals with deep, rich flavors. Chickpeas, with their nutty undertone, perfectly complement the meatballs by adding extra density and nutrition to the texture. Tomatoes, onions, and garlic in the sauce reveal the depth of flavor, creating a rich, slightly spicy and warming composition. It is an ideal dish for family lunches and cozy evenings that pairs wonderfully with fresh bread or creamy mashed potatoes. The meatballs soaked in tomato aroma become incredibly juicy and appetizing while chickpeas add a special touch making the dish not only tasty but also healthy.

Energy value per serving

• Calories: 698.5
• Proteins: 32.3g
• Fats: 44.1g
• Carbohydrates: 43.4g

Ingredients

• Ground beef: 300 g
• Wheat flour: 1 tbsp
• Chicken egg: 1 pc
• Provencal herbs: 2 tsp
• Onion: 0.5 pc
• Garlic: 1 clove
• Dried basil: 1 tsp
• Tomatoes in their own juice: 1 jar
• Vegetable oil: 3 tbsp
• Salt: to taste
• Paprika: to taste
• Chickpeas: 150 g

Cooking steps

1. Soak the chickpeas overnight (10-12 hours) in cold water (there should be 4-5 times more water). Drain the water and rinse. Place in salted water and boil for about an hour until softened (during this time, prepare the meatballs and sauce). Drain the water and leave in the pot covered while waiting for the tomato sauce.

   Required ingredients:

   • Chickpeas: 150 g
   • Salt:  to taste

2. Prepare meatballs: mix minced meat, spices, salt, flour, and egg by hand and roll into balls. You will get 8 pieces.

   Required ingredients:

   • Ground beef: 300 g
   • Wheat flour: 1 tablespoon
   • Chicken egg: 1 piece

3. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a pan. Transfer the meatballs to the pan and fry over medium heat for 5-10 minutes until browned on all sides. Transfer the meatballs to a plate lined with paper towels.

   Required ingredients:

   • Vegetable oil: 3 tablespoons

4. Drain the oil with meat pieces. Pour a tablespoon of vegetable oil into the pan. Sauté the chopped onion with garlic for 5 minutes until softened. Add chopped tomatoes with juice, salt, add paprika, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and cover for 10 minutes.

   Required ingredients:

   • Vegetable oil: 3 tablespoons
   • Onion: 0.5 piece
   • Garlic: 1 clove
   • Tomatoes in their own juice: 1 jar
   • Salt:  to taste
   • Paprika:  to taste

5. Transfer half of the sauce to the chickpeas, mix and put on the heat for 5 minutes. In the pan with tomato sauce, add the meatballs, mix, cover with a lid and cook for 30 minutes.

   Required ingredients:

   • Chickpeas: 150 g