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–+ servings
Moroccan Kefta Meatballs

Moroccan Kefta Meatballs

Discover the rich flavors of Moroccan Kefta Meatballs, a delicious dish perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and packed with spices.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 450 g ground beef or lamb 80/20 fat-to-lean ratio
  • 1 medium yellow onion grated
  • 3 tablespoons flat-leaf parsley chopped
  • 3 tablespoons cilantro chopped
  • 1 tablespoon Moroccan spice blend
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 800 g canned crushed tomatoes or passata
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic sliced
  • 2 teaspoons Moroccan spice blend
  • ⅛ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper optional
  • 3 tablespoons flat-leaf parsley chopped
  • 3 tablespoons cilantro chopped
  • 12 units marinated olives
  • To Serve couscous

Equipment

  • Large skillet or pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • Grater for onion
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Optional: Immersion blender

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, grated onion, herbs, spices, and red pepper flakes. Mix gently without overworking to keep meatballs tender.
  2. Wet your hands slightly and form small balls, about the size of a tablespoon. Set aside on a plate covered with plastic wrap.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, stirring until the onion turns translucent.
  4. Add sliced garlic and spices. Cook for another minute to allow the fragrance to develop.
  5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes or passata, stirring well. Let the sauce come to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
  6. Gently place the meatballs into the simmering sauce and cover partially. Cook for 10 minutes.
  7. Stir in the chopped parsley, cilantro, and olives. Add water if the sauce is too thick, and simmer for 5 more minutes.

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 24gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 8IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 5mgIron: 15mg

Notes

For added juicy meatballs, mix in a tablespoon of breadcrumbs soaked in milk.
If certain ingredients are unavailable, substitute lamb for beef or turkey, and use a mix of cumin, paprika, cinnamon, and turmeric for the spice blend.
Serve with couscous or bread, and consider garnishing with additional herbs and olive oil for presentation.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or frozen in portion-sized containers for future meals.
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