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Mary Berry Meatballs in Tomato and Basil Sauce Recipe

Mary Berry Meatballs in Tomato and Basil Sauce

This dish features homemade meatballs made from minced meat and flavorful seasonings, simmered in a classic tomato and basil sauce. Mary Berry’s recipe ensures perfectly moist meatballs and a sauce that’s bursting with fresh, herby flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Meatballs:

  • 500g minced beef or pork (or a mix)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 50g breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil, for frying

For the Tomato and Basil Sauce:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cans (400g each) of chopped tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato purée
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • A handful of fresh basil leaves, torn
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

For the Meatballs:

  • Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced meat, chopped onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.
  • Shape the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into small, even-sized balls, about the size of a walnut.
  • Cook the Meatballs: Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and fry until golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.

For the Tomato and Basil Sauce:

  • Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
  • Make the Sauce: Stir in the chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes until slightly thickened.
  • Add the Basil: Stir in the fresh basil leaves and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Combine and Cook:

  • Simmer the Meatballs in the Sauce: Add the browned meatballs to the sauce, ensuring they are fully coated. Simmer gently for another 10-15 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through and the flavors have melded.
  • Serve and Enjoy: Serve the meatballs hot with pasta, rice, or crusty bread, and garnish with extra basil if desired.