Juicy Spicy Turkish Meatballs

There’s something irresistibly comforting about meatballs, especially when they come packed with flavor and a hint of spice. Juicy Spicy Turkish Meatballs are a delightful twist on the traditional meatball, blending aromatic spices with fresh herbs to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a cozy family dinner or an impressive dish to serve guests, these meatballs are sure to steal the show.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

These Juicy Spicy Turkish Meatballs are not only delicious but also versatile. They can be served over rice, nestled in a warm pita, or enjoyed alongside a refreshing salad. The combination of spices and herbs gives them a unique flavor profile that sets them apart from regular meatballs. Plus, they’re quick to prepare and perfect for meal prep, making them a fantastic addition to your weeknight dinner lineup.

What Goes In

To make these flavorful meatballs, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll gather:

• 1 lb ground beef (lean or extra lean)
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-2 fresh green chillies or jalapeños, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
• 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh dill leaves, chopped
• 2 or more tablespoons fresh parsley leaves, chopped
• 1 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon allspice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons ground rice flour (or grind 1/4 cup of any type of rice until it’s a fine powder)
• 1 teaspoon olive oil

For the sauce, you will need:

• 1 small onion, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 green chillies thinly sliced (optional)
• 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
• 2 bay leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 cup cold plain yogurt (green yogurt works fine)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 more tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped

Prep & Cook Tools

Before you get started, gather the following tools:

• Mixing bowl – for combining the meatball ingredients.
• Skillet – for browning the meatballs and preparing the sauce.
• Spatula or wooden spoon – for stirring.
• Saucepan – for making the sauce.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient measurements.
• Knife and cutting board – for chopping the vegetables and herbs.

Juicy Spicy Turkish Meatballs: How It’s Done

Now that you have everything ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create these mouthwatering meatballs.

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, green chillies, cilantro, dill, parsley, nutmeg, allspice, salt, pepper, and ground rice flour. Mix everything together until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Using your hands, form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a plate or a baking sheet as you go. This should yield around 20-25 meatballs, depending on the size you choose.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

In a large skillet, heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. If you’re using green chillies, add them now and cook for an additional minute.

Step 5: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes, then add the bay leaves, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5 minutes.

Step 6: Combine Meatballs and Sauce

Return the meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let them simmer for another 15-20 minutes. This will ensure the meatballs are cooked through while soaking up all the delicious flavors of the sauce.

Step 7: Make the Yogurt Sauce

While the meatballs are simmering, prepare the yogurt sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the cold plain yogurt and cornstarch until smooth. Stir in the fresh cilantro, parsley, and dill. This cooling sauce will balance the heat of the meatballs perfectly.

Make It Year-Round

• Serve with rice, couscous, or quinoa for a filling meal.
• Pair with a fresh salad to lighten up the dish during warmer months.
• Use as a filling for pita pockets or wraps for a lunch option.
• Freeze any leftovers for quick meals later on!

Little Things that Matter

When preparing Juicy Spicy Turkish Meatballs, a few little tweaks can elevate the dish:

• For a deeper flavor, allow the meatballs to rest for 10 minutes after shaping before cooking.
• Experiment with different herbs like mint or oregano for a unique twist.
• Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of green chillies or using milder peppers.

Storage Pro Tips

Storing your Juicy Spicy Turkish Meatballs is easy:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Place cooked and cooled meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQ

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just be mindful to not overcook them, as turkey can dry out more quickly than beef.

What can I serve with these meatballs?

These meatballs pair wonderfully with rice, couscous, or even in a wrap with fresh vegetables. You can also serve them alongside a simple salad for a light meal.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. They can also be cooked and stored for later use.

How spicy are these meatballs?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. You can omit the green chillies or use milder peppers to keep the heat down. Feel free to tailor the spice to your taste!

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Make It Tonight

With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can have a plate of Juicy Spicy Turkish Meatballs ready in no time. This dish is sure to become a family favorite, perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. The blend of spices, fresh herbs, and savory meatballs will leave everyone asking for seconds. So, roll up your sleeves, and get cooking tonight!