Middle Eastern Turkey Meatballs with Couscous
Infused with the warm, fragrant spices of the Middle East, these Turkey Meatballs with Couscous are a hearty and flavor-packed dish perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Tender turkey meatballs seasoned with cumin, coriander, and a hint of cinnamon are seared to golden perfection, then simmered in a savory broth for maximum juiciness. Paired with fluffy couscous brightened with fresh lemon zest, parsley, and mint, this dish strikes a perfect balance between earthy and fresh flavors. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s a quick yet elegant meal that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious. Serve it as is or pair with a refreshing cucumber yogurt sauce for an extra layer of indulgence! Perfect for fans of Middle Eastern cuisine, this recipe is a flavorful one-pot wonder that’s sure to impress.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 500 g ground turkey
- 1 small, finely chopped onion
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 60 g breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 0.5 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 250 ml chicken or vegetable stock
- 200 g couscous
- 1 zested and juiced lemon
- 15 g finely chopped fresh parsley
- 15 g finely chopped fresh mint
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until fully incorporated.
Using wet hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs, about the size of a golf ball. Set them aside on a plate.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches and sear on all sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the meatballs and set aside.
In the same skillet, pour the chicken or vegetable stock and bring to a simmer. Return the meatballs to the skillet, cover, and cook for an additional 10 minutes, ensuring the meatballs are cooked through.
Meanwhile, prepare the couscous by placing it in a heatproof bowl. Pour boiling water or additional stock over the couscous, just enough to cover it, and cover the bowl with a lid or plate. Let sit for 5-7 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
Stir lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped parsley, and chopped mint into the couscous for added flavor.
To serve, spoon the couscous onto individual plates or a large serving platter. Top with the turkey meatballs and spoon some of the pan sauce over the top. Garnish with additional parsley or mint if desired.
Serve warm and enjoy this hearty, flavorful dish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1656 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 77.8 g | 100% | |
| Saturated Fat | 18.6 g | 93% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 574 mg | 191% | |
| Sodium | 5100 mg | 222% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 121.3 g | 44% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.6 g | 45% | |
| Total Sugars | 12.1 g | ||
| Protein | 123.6 g | 247% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.3 mcg | 7% | |
| Calcium | 300 mg | 23% | |
| Iron | 17.7 mg | 98% | |
| Potassium | 913 mg | 19% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
