Moroccan meatballs are a flavorful and aromatic dish that is sure to impress. With a perfect blend of spices and herbs, these meatballs are both delicious and easy to make, making them a versatile option for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Bursting with great flavors from a mix of traditional Moroccan spices.
- Quick and easy prep time, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
- Can be served as a main dish or as an appetizer for a party.
Ingredient Notes:
- Ground beef (or lamb for a more traditional version) provides a rich and savory base.
- Onions add depth of flavor, while fresh parsley and cilantro bring a burst of freshness.
- A mix of ground cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, turmeric, ginger, and cayenne pepper create the signature Moroccan spice blend.
- An egg and breadcrumbs bind the meat mixture together, while olive oil is used for frying.
- Diced tomatoes, tomato paste, honey, chicken broth, and lemon juice make up the flavorful sauce.
- Extra cilantro and parsley can be used for garnish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix together the ground beef, chopped onions, minced garlic, parsley, cilantro, spices, egg, and breadcrumbs.
- Form the mixture into meatballs and fry them in olive oil until browned.
- In a separate pan, combine diced tomatoes, tomato paste, honey, chicken broth, and lemon juice to make the sauce.
- Add the meatballs to the sauce and simmer until cooked through.
- Serve the meatballs garnished with fresh cilantro and parsley.
Helpful Tips:
- For a spicier kick, add more cayenne pepper to the meat mixture.
- To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them altogether.
- Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- For an extra flavor boost, toast the spices in a dry pan before adding them to the meat mixture.
- Use a mix of beef and lamb for a more complex flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these Moroccan meatballs with couscous, rice, or flatbread for a complete meal. Pair with a side salad and a refreshing mint tea for an authentic Moroccan experience.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
To store, place the meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in a pan with a bit of water to maintain their moisture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative. - Can I freeze these meatballs?
Yes, these meatballs can be frozen for up to 3 months. - Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake them in the oven for a healthier option. - Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Conclusion:
Moroccan meatballs are a delicious and versatile dish that is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Try this recipe today and experience the exotic flavors of Morocco in the comfort of your own home. Enjoy!
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Moroccan Meatballs
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Moroccan
- Diet: Halal
Description
These Moroccan meatballs are a flavorful and aromatic dish made with a blend of spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. Served with a tomato-based sauce, they are perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef or lamb
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground turmeric
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
Sauce:
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp honey (optional)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Extra fresh cilantro and parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the meatballs: In a bowl, mix all the meatball ingredients until well combined. Shape into small meatballs.
- Fry the meatballs: Heat olive oil in a pan and fry the meatballs until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In the same pan, add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, honey, chicken broth, and lemon juice. Simmer for a few minutes.
- Combine: Add the meatballs back to the pan and simmer in the sauce until cooked through.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can serve these meatballs over couscous or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
- Feel free to adjust the spice levels to suit your taste preferences.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 meatball with sauce
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg