Harissa Beef Meatballs with Yogurt Sauce and Garlic offers a delightful fusion of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. These juicy meatballs, infused with the vibrant and spicy kick of harissa, are beautifully complemented by a creamy, tangy yogurt sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends with its bold flavors and inviting aromas.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 315
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
Why Make This Harissa Beef Meatballs with Yogurt Sauce and Garlic
These Harissa Beef Meatballs are not just a meal; they are an experience. The ground beef, mixed with the fiery harissa paste, creates a spicy yet richly savory flavor that is hard to resist. Paired with the cool, creamy yogurt sauce that balances the heat, each bite provides a delightful contrast in taste and texture. Whether you’re enjoying them with a fresh salad, dipping them in sauce, or serving them with pita, these meatballs are versatile and will add a Mediterranean flair to your dining table.
How to Make Harissa Beef Meatballs with Yogurt Sauce and Garlic
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tablespoons harissa paste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced (for sauce)
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro) for garnish
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the meatballs will cook evenly and develop a nice, slightly crispy exterior.
Step 2: Mixing
In a bowl, combine the ground beef, harissa paste, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Using your hands, mix the ingredients until everything is well blended. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
Step 3: Shaping
Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spaced out to allow for even cooking.
Step 4: Baking
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until they are cooked through and browned on the outside. You can check for doneness by cutting one in half; the inside should be no longer pink.
Step 5: Preparing the Yogurt Sauce
While the meatballs are baking, prepare your yogurt sauce by mixing together the plain yogurt, lemon juice, and minced garlic in a bowl. This sauce will add a refreshing creaminess that pairs perfectly with the spicy meatballs.
Step 6: Serving
Once the meatballs are done, serve them warm drizzled with the yogurt sauce and garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to add a pop of color and flavor.
How to Serve Harissa Beef Meatballs with Yogurt Sauce and Garlic
These meatballs are incredibly versatile! Serve them over a bed of fluffy couscous or alongside warm pita bread. They make great appetizers for gatherings when placed on a platter for guests to enjoy with toothpicks. Pair them with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
How to Store Harissa Beef Meatballs with Yogurt Sauce and Garlic
Leftover Harissa Beef Meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the cooked meatballs individually on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Expert Tips for Perfect Harissa Beef Meatballs with Yogurt Sauce and Garlic
- For a milder flavor, use less harissa paste or choose a mild variety.
- Incorporate other spices such as cumin or paprika for added depth.
- If you don’t have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or oats can work as substitutes.
- Adjust the yogurt sauce to your taste by adding herbs like dill or mint for a fresh twist.
Delicious Variations
- Swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to lighten up the dish.
- Mix in chopped spinach or grated zucchini into the meatball mixture for added veggies.
- Turn this dish into a spicy meatball sub by serving the meatballs in a toasted sandwich bun with the yogurt sauce and fresh herbs.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make meatballs ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them raw for up to 24 hours or cook them ahead and reheat.
- What is harissa? Harissa is a North African chili paste made from roasted red peppers, spices, and herbs, which adds a fragrant heat to dishes.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? To make this recipe gluten-free, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats.
- Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying them? Yes! Baking is a healthier option, and in this recipe, the meatballs are baked for an easy, no-fry method.
- What can I serve with these meatballs? Serve the meatballs with couscous, rice, or in wraps with veggies for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Harissa Beef Meatballs with Yogurt Sauce and Garlic is a delightful recipe that brings together bold and comforting flavors. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a quick dinner or a gathering with friends. With every bite, you’ll savor the blend of spicy and creamy elements, making this dish a new favorite in your kitchen. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the journey of creating this delicious meal!
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Harissa Beef Meatballs with Yogurt Sauce and Garlic
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
Harissa Beef Meatballs with Yogurt Sauce and Garlic offers a delightful fusion of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. These juicy meatballs, infused with the vibrant and spicy kick of harissa, are beautifully complemented by a creamy, tangy yogurt sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends with its bold flavors and inviting aromas.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tablespoons harissa paste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced (for sauce)
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro) for garnish
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the meatballs will cook evenly and develop a nice, slightly crispy exterior.
In a bowl, combine the ground beef, harissa paste, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Using your hands, mix the ingredients until everything is well blended. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spaced out to allow for even cooking.
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until they are cooked through and browned on the outside. You can check for doneness by cutting one in half; the inside should be no longer pink.
While the meatballs are baking, prepare your yogurt sauce by mixing together the plain yogurt, lemon juice, and minced garlic in a bowl. This sauce will add a refreshing creaminess that pairs perfectly with the spicy meatballs.
Once the meatballs are done, serve them warm drizzled with the yogurt sauce and garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to add a pop of color and flavor.
Notes
- For a milder flavor, use less harissa paste or choose a mild variety.
- Incorporate other spices such as cumin or paprika for added depth.
- If you don’t have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or oats can work as substitutes.
- Adjust the yogurt sauce to your taste by adding herbs like dill or mint for a fresh twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
