Dive into a world of tantalizing flavors with our Moroccan Meatballs with Pomegranate Glaze! This dish is not just a meal; it's an experience that transports your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Morocco. Imagine succulent meatballs infused with warm spices, perfectly complemented by a sweet and tangy pomegranate glaze that will leave you craving more. Whether you're planning a cozy family dinner or looking to impress guests at your next gathering, these meatballs are sure to steal the show. Get ready to discover the secrets behind this delectable recipe that promises to be a hit at your table!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Moroccan
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup pomegranate juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, egg, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly using your hands until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Shape the meat mixture into uniform meatballs, approximately
- 5 inches in diameter. Aim to create about 16-20 meatballs depending on size preference.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a light coating of olive oil. Ensure the skillet is hot before adding meatballs to achieve a nice golden-brown exterior.
- Cook meatballs in batches, rotating them every 2-3 minutes to ensure even browning on all sides. Cook for approximately 8-10 minutes total, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- In a separate small saucepan, combine pomegranate juice and honey. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reduces and thickens to a glaze-like consistency, about 10-12 minutes.
- Once meatballs are fully cooked, remove from skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Drizzle the reduced pomegranate-honey glaze over the meatballs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Garnish with additional chopped parsley and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot as a main course or appetizer.
Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh parsley and high-quality ground beef. Fresh herbs can elevate the dish significantly.
- Don't Overmix: When combining the ingredients for the meatballs, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
- Uniform Size: Aim for uniform meatball sizes (about
- 5 inches) to ensure even cooking. This will help them brown nicely and cook thoroughly.
- Preheat Your Skillet: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the meatballs. A hot skillet will give you that beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Monitor Cooking Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.
- Glaze Consistency: Keep an eye on the pomegranate glaze as it simmers; it should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and extra chopped parsley not only adds flavor but also enhances the visual appeal of your dish.
- Serve with Sides: These meatballs pair wonderfully with couscous, rice, or a fresh salad, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 110mg
