Youvarlakia

5 servings

Ingredients

QuantityIngredient
1poundsGround beef
¼poundsOnion; grated
3Garlic cloves; minced
½teaspoonOregano
1teaspoonGround cumin
2tablespoonsMinced flat-leaf parsley
½cupFinely chopped onion
4Garlic cloves; minced
½teaspoonFreshly ground cinnamon
1tablespoonHoney
2poundsTomatoes skinned, seeded & chopped
2tablespoonsFinely chopped fresh mint
½teaspoonFreshly ground black pepper
Salt
¼cupLong-grain rice
4tablespoonsFruity olive oil
Salt
Freshly ground black pepper
½cupHerb broth or water
2tablespoonsMinced flat-leaf parsley
2tablespoonsFinely chopped fresh mint
1tablespoonFinely chopped fresh basil

Directions

TOMATO SAUCE

Put the ground beef in a bowl with the grated onion, garlic, oregano, cumin, parsley, mint, and pepper and add salt. Rinse, then scald the rice by pouring boiling water over it in a bowl; leave to soak for 5 minutes. Drain, add to the beef, and mix all ingredients well. Form small sausage shapes.

Heat the oil in a large skillet and fry the meatballs until brown.

Drain on paper towels.

Add the onion to the oil remaining in the pan and fry over gentle heat until translucent. Add the garlic, cinnamon, and honey and stir until carmelized. Add the chopped tomato, season, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the sauce has reduced. Add the herb broth and the meatballs. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped herbs.

Source: Recipes from a Greek Island - by Susie Jacobs : ISBN: 0-671-74531-X