Kofta Meatballs with Sweet and Sour Cherry Sauce

INGREDIENTS

• FOR THE CHERRY SAUCE
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 shallot, chopped (or 2 tablespoons diced red onion)
• 1 cup dried cherries
• 3 teaspoons honey
• splash of Brandy (optional)
• 1/2 lemon, juiced
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh mint
• salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• For the Meatballs
• 1 pound ground lamb
• 1/4 cup sparkling water
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon allspice
• salt and pepper to taste
• 3 tablespoons olive oil