Moroccan Meatballs
These flavorful Moroccan meatballs are packed with aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, served in a rich tomato-based sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner with a touch of exotic flair.
- Author: Emma
- 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
For the 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 or soaked bread
- 2 tbsp olive oil for frying
For the 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
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a bowl, mix the ground meat, onion, garlic, herbs, spices, egg, and breadcrumbs. Form into small meatballs.
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a pan and brown the meatballs on all sides. Remove from pan.
- Make the Sauce: In the same pan, combine diced tomatoes, tomato paste, honey, broth, and lemon juice. Simmer for a few minutes.
- Finish Dish: Return meatballs to the sauce and simmer until cooked through. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Notes
- For a spicier version, increase the cayenne pepper or add harissa paste.
- These meatballs are delicious served over couscous or with crusty bread.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
Keywords: Moroccan recipe, meatball recipe, exotic flavors, dinner idea