Savory Lime Beef & Harissa Meatballs Recipe

Looking for a meal that’s bursting with flavor and has a hint of exotic allure? Look no further than Lime Beef & Harissa Meatballs in a Coconut Chickpea Sauce! This dish is not only visually appealing but also incredibly satisfying. Picture tender beef meatballs simmered in a rich and spicy harissa tomato sauce, beautifully mellowed by the creaminess of coconut milk. The addition of chickpeas adds a nice texture, and the finishing touch of fresh lime and cilantro gives it an aromatic brightness that’s hard to resist.

The secret to this dish’s appeal lies in its harmonious blend of spices and fresh ingredients. The harissa paste delivers a delightful kick, while the coconut milk ensures that every bite is decadently creamy. Whether served over fluffy couscous, rice, or alongside warm flatbread, this dish is tailored for comfort and delight. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate various dietary needs, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.

What’s more, preparing Lime Beef & Harissa Meatballs in a Coconut Chickpea Sauce is straightforward and doesn’t require a culinary degree. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time. Let’s dive into why this recipe should be your next go-to!

Why You’ll Love This Lime Beef & Harissa Meatballs in a Coconut Chickpea Sauce

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of beef, harissa, and coconut milk delivers a wonderful mix of spicy, savory, and creamy flavors.
• Easy to Make: With just a few steps, you can create a gourmet meal without standing in the kitchen for hours.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber from the beef and chickpeas, it’s a nutritious option for the whole family.
• Customizable: Adjust the spices and ingredients according to your taste preferences – make it as spicy or mild as you like!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish keeps well and is great for leftovers, making it ideal for weekly meal planning.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To ensure your Lime Beef & Harissa Meatballs in a Coconut Chickpea Sauce turn out perfectly, it’s important to get your kitchen and workspace ready before you start cooking. First, gather all your ingredients and equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:

• A large skillet or Dutch oven for cooking the meatballs and sauce—this ensures even heating.
• A mixing bowl for combining the meatball ingredients.
• A spatula or wooden spoon for stirring the sauce.
• A zester or grater for the lime zest.
• Measuring spoons and cups for accurate ingredient measurements.

After gathering your equipment, clean your countertops and have a tidy workspace to work efficiently. This will help you focus on crafting your delicious meatballs without distractions. Once everything is ready, you can easily transition from one step to the next.

Ingredients

• 500g ground beef
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons harissa paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 lime, zest and juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 can (400g) chickpeas, drained
• 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 handful fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

Begin by heating a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, adding 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Meanwhile, in a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with 2 cloves of minced garlic, lime zest, breadcrumbs, egg, ground cumin, and salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly incorporated. Take a handful of the mixture and shape it into meatballs, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking.

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

Once the oil is hot, carefully add the meatballs to the skillet. Sear them on all sides until they acquire a nice golden brown color—this caramelization adds depth of flavor to your dish. Once browned, gently remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the additional minced garlic. Sauté for a minute until fragrant, then stir in the harissa paste, letting it cook for another minute to enhance its flavors. Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes, coconut milk, chickpeas, and the freshly squeezed lime juice. Stir everything together and allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Add the Meatballs Back

Carefully return the browned meatballs to the pan, ensuring they are nestled in the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, covering the skillet, and let the meatballs simmer for about 20 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully and the meatballs to cook through while soaking up the sauce.

Step 5: Final Touches

After 20 minutes, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary with additional salt or lime juice. Finally, sprinkle over chopped cilantro for a fresh touch, enhancing both aesthetic appeal and flavor. Your Lime Beef & Harissa Meatballs in a Coconut Chickpea Sauce is now ready to serve!

Variations

• Protein: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a plant-based version, try lentil meatballs or chickpea patties.
• Vegetables: Add diced bell peppers or spinach to the sauce for a vitamin boost and extra texture.
• Spices: Customize the flavor by adding different spices like paprika, coriander, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for additional heat.

Cooking Notes

• For the richest flavor and texture, use full-fat coconut milk.
• If you prefer a milder taste, adjust the amount of harissa to suit your spice tolerance.
• Letting the meatball mixture rest for 15 minutes before shaping can improve the texture.
• If the sauce thickens too much while simmering, feel free to add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve your meatballs over a fluffy bed of couscous or rice for a complete meal.
• Pair with warm flatbread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• A dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of tahini can add a nice creaminess if desired.

Tips

• For added flavor, consider marinating the beef for a few hours with spices and lime juice before mixing.
• This dish is perfect for meal prepping; simply store portions in airtight containers in the fridge for later enjoyment.
• Don’t forget to taste as you go! This technique helps ensure your final dish reflects your personal preferences.
• For a richer color, garnish with more fresh cilantro or even lime wedges when serving.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approximately 550 per serving
• Protein: About 30g
• Sodium: 800mg

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat for the meatballs?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even lamb can work well in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed based on the protein used.

What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs beautifully with couscous, rice, or warm flatbreads. You can also add a side salad for freshness.

Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! You can mix the meatball ingredients ahead of time and store the mixture in the refrigerator for a few hours or even overnight before cooking.

Is this recipe spicy?

The spice level can be adjusted by varying the amount of harissa. Feel free to start with less and add more to taste as you’re cooking.

Conclusion

Lime Beef & Harissa Meatballs in a Coconut Chickpea Sauce is an unforgettable dish that effortlessly combines sweet, spicy, and savory elements. With its tender meatballs simmered in a rich sauce, it’s a recipe that’s sure to impress family and friends. The simplicity of preparation allows even novice cooks to create a culinary masterpiece, while the rich flavors make it a crowd-pleaser. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your own variations or experiences in the comments below. Happy cooking!

Lime Beef & Harissa Meatballs in a Coconut Chickpea Sauce

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• Author: Alioui
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

A meal that’s bursting with flavor and has a hint of exotic allure.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 500g ground beef
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons harissa paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 lime, zest and juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 can (400g) chickpeas, drained
• 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 handful fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg

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Instructions

1. Begin by heating a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, adding 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Meanwhile, in a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with 2 cloves of minced garlic, lime zest, breadcrumbs, egg, ground cumin, and salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly incorporated. Take a handful of the mixture and shape it into meatballs, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking.
2. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the meatballs to the skillet. Sear them on all sides until they acquire a nice golden brown color—this caramelization adds depth of flavor to your dish. Once browned, gently remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the additional minced garlic. Sauté for a minute until fragrant, then stir in the harissa paste, letting it cook for another minute to enhance its flavors. Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes, coconut milk, chickpeas, and the freshly squeezed lime juice. Stir everything together and allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer.
4. Carefully return the browned meatballs to the pan, ensuring they are nestled in the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, covering the skillet, and let the meatballs simmer for about 20 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully and the meatballs to cook through while soaking up the sauce.
5. After 20 minutes, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary with additional salt or lime juice. Finally, sprinkle over chopped cilantro for a fresh touch, enhancing both aesthetic appeal and flavor. Your Lime Beef & Harissa Meatballs in a Coconut Chickpea Sauce is now ready to serve!

Notes

For the richest flavor and texture, use full-fat coconut milk. If you prefer a milder taste, adjust the amount of harissa to suit your spice tolerance.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Dinner

Nutrition

• Calories: 550 kcal
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Protein: 30 g