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  4. Lamb Meatballs with Harissa Chili Jam, Sumac Onions, and Harissa Yogurt

Lamb Meatballswith Harissa Chili Jam, Sumac Onions, and Harissa Yogurt

Recipe by Max Jarmey on InstagramAdded 6 August 2026.
  • 35 min
  • Serves 4
  • 10 ingredients

15 minutes to prep, 20 to cook. Tender ground‑lamb meatballs are spiced and pan‑seared, then served with a fiery harissa‑chili jam, tangy sumac‑seasoned onions, and a cooling harissa‑infused yogurt. The dish balances heat, acidity, and creaminess for a bold Middle‑Eastern dinner.

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Ingredients

4 servingsMetric

Amounts as Max Jarmey gives them. Metric converts supported weights and liquids, and oven temperatures; spoon measures and counts stay as written.

Method

  1. 1

    In a large bowl, combine the ground lamb, 1 tsp ground cumin, a pinch of salt, and a pinch of black pepper; mix gently with clean hands until just blended.

  2. 2

    Form the seasoned lamb into 1‑inch (2‑cm) meatballs, placing them on a parchment‑lined tray; you should have about 16 balls.

  3. 3

    Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium‑high heat until shimmering.

  4. 4

    Add the meatballs in a single layer, being careful not to crowd the pan; sear for 2‑3 minutes on each side until a deep golden crust forms.

    Kitchen notes · Added by ReelsMeals: A deep golden crust forms on the meatballs. Leave space between them so they sear instead of steam.

  5. 5

    Reduce the heat to medium, cover the skillet, and continue cooking for another 6‑8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meatballs are cooked through (internal temperature 160°F/160°F).

    Kitchen notes · Added by ReelsMeals: The meatballs are cooked through. Turn them occasionally while they finish cooking.

  6. 6

    While the meatballs finish, place the sliced red onion in a small bowl, drizzle with a little olive oil, and toss with 1 tsp sumac; set aside to marinate briefly.

    Kitchen notes · Added by ReelsMeals: The onions are coated with sumac and lightly marinated. Toss until the sumac is evenly distributed.

  7. 7

    In a separate small bowl, whisk together the plain Greek yogurt and 1 tbsp harissa paste until smooth; season with a pinch of salt if desired.

    Kitchen notes · Added by ReelsMeals: The yogurt and harissa form a smooth sauce. Whisk until the harissa is evenly blended.

  8. 8

    Warm the harissa chili jam in a tiny saucepan over low heat for 1‑2 minutes, just enough to make it spreadable.

  9. 9

    When the meatballs are done, transfer them to a serving platter, leaving any pan juices in the skillet.

  10. 10

    If you like a light sauce, deglaze the skillet with 2 tbsp water, scraping up browned bits, and drizzle the resulting jus over the meatballs.

    Kitchen notes · Added by ReelsMeals: The browned bits loosen into the pan juices. Scrape the skillet base as the water loosens the browned bits.

  11. 11

    Arrange the sumac‑marinated onions alongside the meatballs on the platter.

  12. 12

    Add a generous spoonful of the harissa‑yogurt beside each serving, and place a small dollop of warm harissa chili jam on top of a few meatballs.

  13. 13

    Serve immediately with warm flatbread or a simple cucumber salad, if desired.

Tips while you cook

Size the meatballs
Form the seasoned lamb into 1‑inch (2‑cm) balls to yield about 16 pieces.
Finish cooking covered
After searing, reduce heat, cover the skillet, and cook 6‑8 minutes, turning occasionally, until done.
Warm the jam briefly
Heat the harissa chili jam over low for 1‑2 minutes just until spreadable.
Marinate the onions
Toss sliced red onion with olive oil and sumac, then let it sit briefly before serving.

Notes from ReelsMeals, based on this recipe's ingredients, times and method. They are not the creator's instructions.

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The recipe comes from Max Jarmey’s Instagram reel. ReelsMeals wrote it down from the caption and the voiceover. Check the original if something looks off, and for anything about allergens.

Are you Max Jarmey and want this changed? Email [email protected].

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