Libyan Fish Balls
     in Tomato Sauce
Serves 4 to 6

For the Kifte

1 pound fish fillet, snapper, grouper, or tilapia,
         chopped fine or pulsed in a food processor
1/2 cup bread crumbs
2 large eggs, beaten
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 garlic clove, chopped
1/4 cup chopped parsley
1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste

Flour for dredging
1/2 cup olive oil (not extra virgin)

For the Sauce

1 15-ounce can diced or crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1/2 cup water
8 large fresh basil leaves, sliced thin (or 12 small)
2 teaspoons fresh tarragon, chopped
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
juice of 1/2 a lemon
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)

2. Place kifte ingredients, except flour and oil into food processor.
     Blend until well combined and smooth.
     Transfer mix to a clean bowl, add the ground fish
     and mix until well combined.

3. Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat in a saute pan.
     Form fish mixture into 12 egg-sized oval balls.
     Dredge in flour, and brown them on all sides in the preheated pan.
     Transfer the fish balls to a baking dish.

4. Combine all of the sauce ingredients in a medium saucepan.
     Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
     Season to taste with salt and pepper.
     Pour the hot sauce over the fish balls.
5. Bake in pre-heated oven for 35 to 40 minutes.
     until bubbling throughout

6. Serve hot or warm with couscous, rice or pita.


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