Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Lime Beef & Harissa Meatballs in a Coconut Chickpea Sauce


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

Description

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


Ingredients

Scale
  • 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

  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