Jerk Meatballs in Coconut Curry Sauce is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines spicy jerk-seasoned meatballs with a creamy coconut curry sauce. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or a special gathering, serving it over rice or with naan for a complete meal.

Ingredients

For the Jerk Meatballs:

• 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 large egg
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

For the Coconut Curry Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 can (14 ounces) coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)

Timing

Making Jerk Meatballs in Coconut Curry Sauce takes about 20 minutes for preparation and 30 minutes for cooking.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Jerk Meatballs

1. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, green onions, minced garlic, grated ginger, jerk seasoning, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
2. Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs

1. Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Brown Meatballs: Add the meatballs to the skillet in batches, cooking for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides. Remove the meatballs and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Coconut Curry Sauce

1. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
2. Add Spices: Stir in the curry powder, ground cumin, and turmeric, cooking for another minute.
3. Add Coconut Milk: Pour in the coconut milk, soy sauce, and lime juice. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Meatballs and Sauce

1. Return Meatballs: Add the browned meatballs back to the skillet, ensuring they are submerged in the sauce. Cover and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the meatballs to cook through.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish: Once cooked, remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
2. Enjoy: Serve the jerk meatballs over rice, quinoa, or with naan bread. Enjoy your delicious Jerk Meatballs in Coconut Curry Sauce!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Jerk Meatballs in Coconut Curry Sauce (per serving, based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	350
Protein	24g
Fat	25g
Carbohydrates	10g
Sugar	3g

Tips for Customization

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or carrots into the curry sauce for added nutrition.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jerk seasoning to suit your heat preference.
• Different Proteins: Substitute ground beef with ground chicken, turkey, or even plant-based meat for a lighter option.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Jerk Meatballs in Coconut Curry Sauce is a vibrant and tasty dish that brings together the bold flavors of jerk seasoning and the creaminess of coconut curry. This recipe is sure to be a hit at your dinner table!

FAQs

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them until ready to cook. They can also be frozen for later use.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your jerk seasoning is gluten-free.