Meatballs with Lentils

Ingredients:

1 lb ground Goat or Lamb meat
2 Tbsp garam masala*
1 1/2 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp ground turmeric
2 whole cloves (spice)
1 inch cinnamon stick (optional)
2 Tbsp butter
1 medium onion, diced
1 tsp garlic, crushed and diced
1/2 tsp fresh ginger root, chopped
3 medium tomatoes diced
1 cup red lentils, washed
2 cups fresh cilantro, chopped
2 cups hot water
Salt to taste
(Paprika garnish)

To prepare:

Mix ground spices and set aside.
In hot saucepan add the whole spices (cloves and cinnamon), stirring continuously for 2 minutes.
Add 1 TBsp butter, chopped onions and garlic.
When onions turn light brown, remove cloves and cinnamon stick, then add and stir in ginger and half of all ground spices.
Add red lentils, 1/2 cup cilantro, 2 cups of hot water and bring to simmer.
In separate bowl:
Mix ground meat, 1 cup chopped cilantro and the rest of the ground spices.
Form 1 inch meatballs and place in the simmering mixture.
Cook for 10 minutes.
Add the tomatoes then cook for an additional 10 minutes.
Remove meatballs from mixture.
Bring lentils and liquid to boil to reduce for 10 minutes.
During this time add additional butter to a frying pan and thoroughly brown meat balls then sprinkle with paprika.
Return meatballs to lentil mixture, salt to taste and garnish with remaining 1/2 cup chopped cilantro.

Prep and cook time 45 minutes
Provides 2-3 servings

*Optional substitute TAVIA spice blend for an unique taste