Indian Kebab in Sauce – Juicy Baked Meatballs with Tomato Sauce

Prep Time: 20 minutes   |   Cook Time: 25 minutes   |   Total Time: 45 minutes   |   Servings: 6

If you're craving a flavorful, juicy, and comforting meat dish, this Indian Kebab in Sauce is a fantastic choice. Tender meatballs made from minced meat are baked in a rich, aromatic tomato sauce with onions, garlic, ginger, and spices. It’s a delicious Middle Eastern-inspired recipe that’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or when you want something satisfying yet easy to prepare.

This baked kebab recipe is loved for its simplicity and bold flavors. The meatballs are shaped into small fingers and nestled in a savory tomato-based sauce that becomes thick and fragrant during baking. The addition of green peppers and spices gives it a wonderful depth, while the final garnish of toasted almonds and pine nuts adds a beautiful crunch and authentic touch.

What makes this dish special is that it requires minimal active cooking time. You sauté the sauce base, shape the kebabs, and let the oven do the rest. It’s a great make-ahead recipe and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Serve it with rice, bread, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients (Serves 6)

• 1 kg minced meat (kefta)
• 2 onions, sliced into wedges
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tomatoes, grated
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 green bell peppers, sliced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Olive oil for cooking
• Toasted almonds and pine nuts for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they soften and turn golden.
3. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stir for a minute, then add the grated tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook until the sauce thickens.
4. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and sliced green peppers. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes, then turn off the heat.
5. Shape the minced meat into small finger-like kebabs.
6. Spread the prepared sauce in a baking dish (Pyrex or similar). Arrange the kebabs on top of the sauce.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the kebabs are fully cooked and slightly browned.
8. Remove from the oven, garnish with toasted almonds and pine nuts. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Use good quality minced meat with a bit of fat for juicier kebabs.
• Don’t skip the ginger and garlic — they give the sauce its signature aroma.
• You can add a pinch of cinnamon or allspice for extra warmth.
• For a spicier version, add chopped chili or chili powder to the sauce.
• Serve with rice, vermicelli, or fresh bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Enjoy this flavorful and comforting Indian Kebab in Sauce — a delicious baked dish that brings everyone to the table! 🍛