If you’re in the mood for a hearty, comforting dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying, these Juicy Meat Patties with Tomato Sauce are just what you need. The patties are made from a blend of minced meat, grated potatoes, and aromatic herbs, giving them a tender, juicy texture. Paired with a rich tomato sauce infused with spices and a touch of sweetness, this dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
For the Meat Patties:
- 800 g minced meat (beef, pork, or a mix)
- 2 eggs
- 2 potatoes, grated
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small bunch parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian herbs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 400 g tomato puree (canned or fresh)
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon hops and suneli (a Georgian spice mix)
- 2-3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 150 ml warm milk (about 2/3 cup)
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6
- Calories per serving: Approximately 380 kcal
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Protein: 26g
Instructions
1. Prepare the Meat Patties
In a large mixing bowl, combine 800 g of minced meat with 2 grated potatoes. The potatoes add moisture and help bind the patties together while contributing a subtle sweetness. Add 1 finely chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves to the mixture for depth of flavor.
Next, incorporate 2 eggs, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of Italian herbs, and a small bunch of chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined. The eggs help bind the mixture, while the spices and herbs add warmth and complexity.
Form the mixture into small patties, about the size of your palm. Aim for uniform size so they cook evenly. You should get about 10-12 patties from this mixture.
2. Cook the Meat Patties
Heat a large pan over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter and a splash of olive oil. The combination of butter and oil prevents the butter from burning and adds a rich flavor to the patties.
Fry the patties in batches, cooking each side for 4-5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this will prevent the patties from browning properly. Once cooked, remove the patties from the pan and set them aside on a plate.
3. Prepare the Tomato Sauce
In the same pan, add a bit more butter if necessary, and sauté 2 minced garlic cloves until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter.
Add 400 g of tomato puree to the pan, followed by 1 teaspoon of ground coriander and 1 teaspoon of hops and suneli. The coriander adds a citrusy note, while hops and suneli brings a unique, slightly earthy flavor. Stir in 1 tablespoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Pour in 2-3 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar for a tangy kick, and then add 150 ml of warm milk to give the sauce a creamy texture and mellow the acidity. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. The sauce should be rich and flavorful, with a good balance of sweetness, acidity, and spice.
4. Combine and Serve
Once the tomato sauce is ready, return the meat patties to the pan. Spoon some of the sauce over each patty, ensuring they are well-coated. Allow the patties to simmer in the sauce for a few more minutes. This final step infuses the patties with the rich flavors of the sauce, making them even more delicious.
Serve the Juicy Meat Patties with Tomato Sauce hot, with the sauce generously drizzled on top. These patties are incredibly versatile and pair well with mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or a fresh salad. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips for Success
- Meat Choice: You can use any combination of beef, pork, or even lamb for the patties. Each type of meat will impart a slightly different flavor, so feel free to experiment.
- Spice Adjustments: If hops and suneli is not available, you can substitute with a blend of ground cumin, fenugreek, and coriander, or simply use more Italian herbs.
- Leftovers: The patties and sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or milk to the sauce if it thickens too much.
This recipe for Juicy Meat Patties with Tomato Sauce is a comforting, flavorful dish that brings together tender, spiced meat patties and a rich, tangy tomato sauce. It’s a wonderful option for a hearty meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
