Harissa Meatballs

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These Harissa Meatballs With Carrots, Broccoli, And Cauliflower Coconut Rice are an excellent option for those in search of a meal to impress guests or a speedy and elegant healthy supper.

Harissa meatballs paired with plantains and cabbage.

Alternatively, pita bread, spinach, tomatoes, and sliced cucumbers make for a flavorful and nutritious side dish. A dressing made of olive oil and lemon juice is another option for those who wish to amp up the flavor (and moisture).

Although it may appear complicated at first glance, its assembly is a surprisingly straightforward recipe.

What are Harissa Meatballs?

This is a flavorful and vibrant variation on traditional meatballs. Harissa meatballs are infused with a North African paste which include coriander, garlic, chile peppers, roasted red peppers, cumin, and olive oil are some of the ingredients that give these meatballs a peppery, aromatic, and smoky flavor.

When combined, roasted and chili peppers offer a rich warmth that goes beyond the spiciness of the peppers. In contrast to chili flakes, it has a deeper flavor.

Harissa paste plays well with other ingredients to create sauces, allowing you to develop a unique flavor combinations. Imagine a sweet and smoky tomato sauce or a creamy harissa yogurt dip.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is harissa paste spicy?

The harissa paste is not particularly spicy, but it does deliver a significant amount of heat. To describe the level of heat, I would say it is light to medium.

What else can I use if I can’t find harissa paste?

In this regard, chili oil or sriracha may be more suitable alternatives. To prevent it from becoming excessively heated, adjust the quantities accordingly to attain the intended degree of heat.

Recipe Tips and Variations and Tips

To avoid the harissa meatballs sticking to your hands, lightly spray them with cooking spray before you begin forming them.
Use fresh herbs, garlic, and onions for robust flavor.
Refrigerate for up to 4 days. The cooked meatballs can be frozen for up to 6 months.

Pairing Harissa Meatballs With Vegetables

The final component of this meal is a quick sauteed vegetable side dish. While the harissa meatballs cook, prepare the vegetables in a separate nonstick skillet.

Simply add the olive oil to the pan, add the broccoli florets and sliced carrots in an even layer. Cook, but do not stir for at least 2 to 3 minutes, or until the vegetables start to lightly brown. Add the sliced onions and ⅓ cup of water. You should use caution because the liquid can splash.

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Loosely cover the pan and cook for 3 to 6 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the water has cooked off. While the vegetables are cooking, be sure to stir occasionally. Transfer to a bowl.

Harissa meatballs in black bowl with plantains and steamed cabbage

Pairing Suggestion

The meatballs are usually served with pita bread, so they are a meal on their own. However, there are many other pairings that you can relish, such as;

Haitian Black Rice: An extraordinarily flavorful Haitian black rice (Diri Djon Djon) that will have you prepared for family dinner on Sundays.
Couscous: A fluffy North African staple, couscous goes well with harissa’s smoky notes and offers a textural contrast to the meatballs.
Roasted Vegetables: Think vibrant bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, or onions. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness and complements the spiciness of the meatballs.
Creamy Yogurt Sauce: A dollop of tangy yogurt sauce cools down the heat and adds a refreshing dimension. Consider spiking it with fresh herbs like mint or dill for extra zing.
Grilled Skewers: This is all about threading cherry tomatoes, red onion, and halloumi cheese onto skewers. Also, you’ve to grill them for a smoky and flavorful side dish.
Jamaican Steamed Cabbage: This cabbage recipe will go with almost anything, and best of all it will be on the table in under 30 minutes.
Haitian Fried Plantains: A great gluten-free side dish that pairs well with everything.

Learn how to make the best Harissa meatballs and learn how to pair with with Jamaican steamed cabbage and Haitian Fried Plantains.

On top of everything, don’t forget to add the bread. If you aren’t sure which bread will go the best, you can opt for naan, pita bread, or crusty baguette. The bread will ensure that you mop the sauce!

Storing Option

Let the meatballs and any surrounding sauce cool completely to room temperature before storing. Then, store the meatballs and sauce separately in airtight containers.

You can refrigerate them for four to five days without compromising the quality and flavor. The meatballs can be frozen if they aren’t cooked. The freezing period of one to two months is fine!

More Meatballs Recipes You’ll Love

Haitian Meatballs

Slow Cooker Meatballs

Swedish Meatballs

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