Meatballs in Asian sauce are a hit for anyone who loves flavorful, slightly spicy dishes. Tender turkey meatballs simmered in a rich, aromatic sauce with coconut milk, tomatoes, and fragrant spices will delight every palate.
Served with rice, this dish is perfect for lunch or dinner and can also be made with chicken instead of turkey
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- Turkey (or chicken) fillet – 14 oz (400 g)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp breadcrumbs
- ½ small onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ tsp curry powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp ground cumin (zira)
- Salt, to taste
- 1–2 tbsp vegetable oil for frying
For the Sauce:
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- 1 can (13.5 oz / 400 ml) coconut milk
- 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes in their own juice
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ¼ cup almonds, chopped
- 1 chili pepper, sliced
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- ½ tsp curry powder
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- 1 whole clove (or pinch of ground clove)
- Salt, to taste
Cooking process
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
Place all meatball ingredients in a food processor and blend until smooth. If using a meat grinder, pass the mixture through twice for a fine texture.
Shape the mixture into walnut-sized balls (about 1–1.5 inches in diameter).
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the meatballs on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
Finely chop the onion, garlic, and almonds. Slice the chili pepper. If using whole cloves, grind them with a mortar and pestle.
Heat 1–2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a pan. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent.
Add garlic and chili, stir, and cook for another 2–3 minutes.
Add the spices and almonds, stir well, and cook for a few minutes.
Add the diced tomatoes and coconut milk, season with salt, and mix thoroughly.
Gently place the meatballs into the sauce and simmer over low heat for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Serve
- Sprinkle the finished meatballs with chopped fresh cilantro.
- Serve with cooked rice as a neutral side that balances the aromatic, spicy sauce.
Tip: You can also use this sauce to cook turkey or chicken fillet pieces instead of meatballs—it’s just as delicious!
Another recipe for making delicious meat balls in a creamy sauce https://takajaeda.com/en/recipes-en/meatballs-in-creamy-sauce/