Curried Meatballs

When I think of  curried meatballs I always think of my son. He just loves the taste of curried foods….

Be it curried chicken, fish or beef , a simple trini curry is versatile. Curry can be served with rice or with the usual roti. My son has no problem with it. Although he is not a big fan of rice, he would overlook it if the peas and meat served with the rice is curried. Of course when he's stubborn and doesn't want to eat we know exactly how to bring that appetite around, ha ha! So, obviously I couldn't hesitate with this recipe; a great addition to your repertoire especially if you have someone in your house who is difficult to cook for, but loves curried foods.

Turmeric flavors this Curried Meatballs Pot

Now, one thing I love to include when I am currying my food is turmeric, because of its brilliant yellow colour. This herb is generally used in East Indian cooking and has been known throughout the ages as having powerful medicinal properties (they have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic qualities). Turmeric is especially useful in cooking as it is often used as a natural food dye. After doing some research around the web I also saw that it was touted to be a superfood.   When used in meals, such as carrot  rice, it gives the dish a look and fragrance that can certainly lift your appetite.

Now, the turmeric plant (we locals call it saffron) grows easily in the tropics. Some plants grow in my backyard without much nurturing. The plant also makes for good landscaping. In times like this, one should definitely start growing food in any accessible corner of your property. This could decrease your food bill significantly. Don't wait for the government – sustainability could start with you.

 

Turmeric powder is made from the dried rhizomes, which is ground and sifted. The colour is retained when stored away from light and heat.

Anyway, I digress. Back to the dish, curried meatballs.

The Curried Meatball Recipe

This is such a simple dish to make. I also believe the meatballs can be served for lunch with rice or it can also be served as an appetizer. Just curry the meatballs in less liquid (about 1 cup), let it simmer and set aside.  The liquid will mostly be absorbed by the meatballs; next stick a tooth pick in each and serve as an appetizer at any gathering.  This versatile recipe is simple to prepare and cook.  I know you will enjoy it.    So, here is my recipe for curried meatballs.  Enjoy!

Curried Meatballs Recipe

 

 

 CURRIED MEATBALLS

Meatballs:
2 pounds ground beef
1/2 cup onion, grated
3 cloves garlic
1/2 tbsp. roasted geera powder
1/2 tbsp. turmeric powder
1 tbsp. curry powder, (duck and goat curry if you have any)
1 egg, beaten
1 sprig chive, minced
2 sprigs fine leaf thyme
1/2 tbsp grated ginger
2 pimento pepper, minced
1/2 cup chadon beni, minced
2 tbsp. green seasoning (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

Curry Sauce:
1 tbsp. oil
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups coconut milk, divided
2 tbsp. curry powder
2 tsp. amchar masala
2 tsp. turmeric powder
1 pimento pepper
2 tsp. geera
Salt and pepper to taste

 

Place the minced beef in a large mixing bowl.

 

Add all the seasonings to the meat

 

Add the beaten egg and mix all of the ingredients together.  Mix until well blended.

 

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.

Form meat into approximately 1 1/2 inch balls, and place on baking sheet.

Note: For those who don't like measuring each ball just average about 2 tablespoon of the meat.

 

Place the meatballs on a lined baking sheet.  Bake for 15-20 minutes.

 

Here is the baked meatballs.  I love these, because most of the fat from the meat was drained away during the baking.

Prepare the rest of the ingredients for the curry sauce.

 

Mix together the turmeric, curry and masala.

 

Add 1/4 cup coconut milk and mix well.

 

In a large pot heat oil over medium high heat.

 

Add onions and cook until soft. Mix in garlic, and cook for 1 minute.

 

Add the chadon beni and pimento. Stir.

 

Add the curry mixture. Stir and cook for 1 minute.

 

Cook until it starts looking sticky.

 

Add coconut milk.

 

Bring to a boil.

 

Add the meatballs to the coconut curry sauce.
Gently stir to coat evenly.  Cook for 5-10 minutes.

 

Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

 

Serve hot over (basmati) rice or noodles if desired.
Man, try it with some buss up shut and all lol!
Curried Meatballs Sub anyone ?  🙂

 

Note: As we said earlier this could easily be adapted as an appetizer.

Anyway I'll leave you all to think about this curried meatballs recipe, more recipes on the way.

Ah gone 🙂