Step 1

Pre-heat oven to 180oC.

Step 2

Add all of the meatball ingredients to a large mixing bowl with the exception of the mozzarella balls.

Step 3

Using your hands, mix well until it is completely combined.

Step 4

Take about a tablespoon of the meat mixture then place a piece of mozzarella into the middle

Step 5

Press the meat around it until the cheese is completely covered.

Step 6

Repeat until the meat is all used.

Step 7

To cook the meatballs, place onto a baking tray and bake for about 30 minutes until browned all over.

Step 8

To make the sauce, heat the olive oil in a pan, then fry the onions until they turn translucent.

Step 9

Crush in the garlic and stir for an additional minute.

Step 10

Empty the onion and garlic into a blender, along with the chopped tomato and blend until smooth, before pouring backing the pan.,

Step 11

Stir in the tomato puree and lemon juice, then simmer with the lid off for 15 minutes until the sauce has reduced and thickened.

Step 12

Finely chop half of the basil leaves and stir into the sauce.

Step 13

To serve, add a dollop of sauce to the top of each meatball then top with basil.

Step 14

Stick a serving stick into each meatball and add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan.