Save Experience a sophisticated blend of flavors with these tender venison meatballs, a dish that perfectly balances the earthy richness of wild game with the bright, zesty notes of a Mediterranean-inspired salad. Served atop a bed of silky, homemade hummus, this meal offers a high-protein, dairy-free dining experience that is as nutritious as it is flavorful. Whether you are looking for a unique weeknight dinner or a centerpiece for a casual gathering, this Mediterranean Fusion recipe delivers a satisfying and aromatic feast in just 45 minutes.
Save The secret to this dish lies in the harmony of the warming spices—cumin, coriander, paprika, and a hint of cinnamon—which elevate the venison without overpowering its natural character. Fresh mint and lemon juice in the salad cut through the richness of the meat, while the tahini-based hummus provides a smooth, nutty foundation that ties all the components together beautifully.
Ingredients
- Venison Meatballs: 500 g ground venison, 1 small onion (finely chopped), 2 garlic cloves (minced), 1 large egg, 40 g breadcrumbs, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp ground coriander, ½ tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp ground cinnamon, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper, 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped), 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying).
- Spiced Salad: 100 g mixed salad greens, 1 small cucumber (diced), 10 cherry tomatoes (halved), ½ small red onion (thinly sliced), 2 tbsp fresh mint (chopped), juice of ½ lemon, 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, salt and pepper to taste.
- Creamy Hummus: 250 g cooked chickpeas (drained and rinsed), 2 tbsp tahini, 1 garlic clove, juice of 1 lemon, 2 tbsp olive oil, 3–4 tbsp cold water, ½ tsp ground cumin, salt to taste.
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the Meatballs
- In a large bowl, combine the ground venison, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix the ingredients until they are just combined.
- 2. Shape
- Shape the meat mixture into 16 meatballs, approximately 30 g each, ensuring they are uniform for even cooking.
- 3. Cook the Meatballs
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 8–10 minutes, turning them occasionally until they are browned on all sides and cooked through. Set aside and keep warm.
- 4. Make the Hummus
- Combine the chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, cumin, and salt in a food processor. Blend until smooth, adding cold water gradually to achieve your desired creamy consistency. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
- 5. Prepare the Salad
- In a large salad bowl, toss the mixed greens, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and fresh mint. Drizzle with the lemon juice and extra-virgin olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss again to coat.
- 6. To Serve
- Spread a generous spoonful of hummus on each plate. Add a portion of the fresh salad, top with the warm venison meatballs, and garnish with additional parsley or mint if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the meatballs remain juicy, avoid overworking the meat mixture when combining the ingredients. For a smoother hummus, you can process the chickpeas while they are still slightly warm or add a few ice cubes to the blender for a lighter, fluffier texture.
Varianten und Anpassungen
If venison is unavailable, you can substitute it with ground lamb or beef for a similarly robust flavor. To make this recipe gluten-free, simply replace the standard breadcrumbs with a gluten-free alternative. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red chili flakes to the meatball mixture.
Serviervorschläge
This dish is wonderful on its own, but it pairs exceptionally well with warm pita bread or toasted flatbread for scooping up the hummus. For wine lovers, a medium-bodied red such as a Pinot Noir or a Grenache will complement the earthy notes of the venison and the aromatic spices perfectly.
Save Bringing together the rustic appeal of venison with the bright traditions of Mediterranean cuisine, these meatballs are sure to become a favorite. The balance of warm spices and cool, crisp vegetables makes every plate a celebration of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Enjoy this vibrant fusion of flavors with friends and family!
Recipe Guide
- → Can I substitute another meat for venison?
Yes, ground lamb or beef work excellently as substitutes while maintaining the rich, savory character of the meatballs.
- → How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?
Mix the ingredients until just combined and ensure the egg and breadcrumbs are evenly distributed to bind the mixture together.
- → Can I make the hummus ahead of time?
Absolutely. Store homemade hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, adding a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
- → What spices give these meatballs their distinctive flavor?
The combination of cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, and cinnamon creates warm, aromatic depth with Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences.
- → How can I make this gluten-free?
Simply replace regular breadcrumbs with certified gluten-free breadcrumbs or use almond meal as a binding alternative.
- → What wine pairs best with venison meatballs?
Medium-bodied red wines like Pinot Noir or Grenache complement the rich venison and warm spices without overwhelming the dish.