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.
Author:Ekani Ella
Prep Time:20
Cook Time:30
Total Time:50 minutes
Yield:41x
Category:Main Course
Method:Frying and Simmering
Cuisine:Italian
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.