Beef Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

These juicy beef meatballs are made with semolina for extra tenderness and gently simmered in a rich tomato sauce with garlic, onion, oregano and a subtle umami note from soy sauce. Simple, comforting and perfect for an everyday dinner.

Ingredients (serves 3–4)

For the meatballs

• 500 g ground beef
• 3 tbsp semolina
• 1 small onion, finely grated or minced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for frying)

For the tomato sauce

• 400 g tomatoes (fresh chopped or canned)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1–2 tsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Prepare the meatball mixture
   In a bowl, combine ground beef, semolina, grated onion, garlic, salt and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Let the mixture rest for 5–10 minutes so the semolina absorbs moisture.
2. Shape and brown the meatballs
   Form medium-sized meatballs. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat and lightly fry the meatballs until golden on all sides. They do not need to be fully cooked at this stage. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Make the tomato sauce
   In the same pan, add olive oil if needed. Sauté the chopped onion until soft and translucent. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
   Stir in the tomatoes, soy sauce and oregano. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
4. Simmer
   Return the meatballs to the sauce, reduce heat to low, cover and simmer gently for 15–20 minutes, until the meatballs are tender and fully cooked and the sauce thickens.
5. Taste and adjust
   Adjust seasoning if needed. Add a splash of water if the sauce becomes too thick.

To serve

Serve the meatballs hot with steamed rice, mashed potatoes or pasta. Finish with fresh greens or herbs for a light, fresh contrast.

Tips

• Semolina keeps the meatballs especially soft without using breadcrumbs.
• A small amount of soy sauce enhances the tomato flavor without making the dish taste “Asian.”
• These meatballs reheat beautifully and taste even better the next day.