Turkey Meatball Curry (Paleo, Whole30)
Looking for a nourishing, satisfying meal that fits perfectly within your Paleo or Whole30 lifestyle? This Turkey Meatball Curry (Paleo, Whole30) is your answer! Bursting with flavor and packed with wholesome ingredients, this dish is not only delicious but also easy to make. With tender turkey meatballs simmered in a creamy coconut milk sauce infused with aromatic spices, you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds.
Let’s dive into the details of this delightful recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Turkey Meatball Curry (Paleo, Whole30). Here are just a few:
– **Quick and Easy**: With minimal prep time and straightforward cooking steps, this dish can be ready in under an hour.
– **Flavorful**: The combination of red curry paste and coconut milk creates a rich, aromatic sauce that elevates the turkey meatballs to new heights.
– **Nourishing Ingredients**: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this dish will keep you full and energized throughout the day.
– **Versatile**: Serve it over cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or your favorite vegetable sides for a complete meal that fits any dietary need.
Ingredients at a Glance
To make this scrumptious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 egg, well beaten
- 2 Tbsp liquid aminos
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 Tbsp fresh ginger, peeled and grated
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- ½ cup tapioca flour (or more if needed)
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 2 to 3 Tbsp avocado oil (for cooking meatballs)
- 1 can coconut milk
- 2 Tbsp red curry paste
- 1 Tbsp pure maple syrup or coconut sugar (optional)
- 1 tsp sea salt, to taste
- 1 red onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
Equipment Breakdown
To prepare your Turkey Meatball Curry (Paleo, Whole30), you’ll need some essential kitchen equipment:
- Mixing Bowl: For combining the meatball ingredients.
- Skillet or Dutch Oven: For cooking the meatballs and simmering the curry sauce.
- Spatula: To help flip the meatballs and stir the sauce.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping vegetables and preparing fresh ingredients.
Turkey Meatball Curry (Paleo, Whole30): How It’s Done
Creating this delicious Turkey Meatball Curry (Paleo, Whole30) is a breeze! Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, well-beaten egg, liquid aminos, minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped green onions, tapioca flour, and sea salt. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix as this can make the meatballs tough.
Step 2: Form the Meatballs
Using your hands, form the mixture into small meatballs, about the size of a golf ball. Place them on a plate or baking sheet as you go.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the avocado oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown on all sides. Remove the cooked meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Curry Sauce
In the same skillet, add the diced red onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. Stir in the coconut milk, red curry paste, and maple syrup or coconut sugar if using. Bring to a simmer.
Step 5: Combine and Simmer
Once the sauce is simmering, gently add the cooked meatballs back into the skillet. Stir gently to coat the meatballs in the curry sauce. Let everything simmer together for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional sea salt if needed.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the meatball curry warm, garnished with additional chopped green onions if desired. Enjoy it on its own or over a bed of cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables.
Make It Fit Your Plan
This Turkey Meatball Curry (Paleo, Whole30) is already compliant with both diets, but here are a few tips to customize it further:
- Vegetable Add-ins: Feel free to add more vegetables such as spinach, kale, or carrots to increase the nutrient content.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red curry paste to your desired spice level. Add red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Substitutions: Swap ground turkey for ground chicken or pork if you prefer.
Chef’s Rationale
Creating this Turkey Meatball Curry (Paleo, Whole30) was inspired by the need for a hearty, yet healthy meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. Turkey is a lean protein option that pairs beautifully with the richness of coconut milk. The combination of fresh ginger, garlic, and red curry paste introduces a wonderful depth of flavor. Plus, the use of tapioca flour binds the meatballs without any grains, making it perfect for those following strict dietary guidelines. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also fuels your body with nutritious ingredients.
Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide
To enjoy your Turkey Meatball Curry (Paleo, Whole30) for days to come, follow these storage tips:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: This dish freezes beautifully! Place cooled meatballs and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of coconut milk if the sauce has thickened too much.
Common Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for the meatballs?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for ground turkey, you can easily substitute it with ground chicken or lean beef for a different flavor profile.
Is the curry sauce spicy?
The spice level can vary based on the curry paste you use. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a smaller amount of red curry paste and gradually adjust to your taste.
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and form the meatballs ahead of time, then refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. They can also be frozen for convenience.
What can I serve with Turkey Meatball Curry?
This curry pairs well with cauliflower rice, steamed broccoli, or lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. You can also enjoy it on its own for a hearty meal.
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Hungry for More?
If you enjoyed this Turkey Meatball Curry (Paleo, Whole30), be sure to check out other delicious recipes on our blog that cater to your dietary preferences. From savory dishes to sweet treats, we’ve got a delightful array of options that will keep your meals exciting and nutritious.
Get ready to savor every bite of this flavorful curry, and watch it become a staple in your kitchen!
Turkey Meatball Curry (Paleo, Whole30)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, well-beaten egg, liquid aminos, minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped green onions, tapioca flour, and sea salt. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix as this can make the meatballs tough.
- Using your hands, form the mixture into small meatballs, about the size of a golf ball. Place them on a plate or baking sheet as you go.
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the avocado oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown on all sides. Remove the cooked meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the diced red onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. Stir in the coconut milk, red curry paste, and maple syrup or coconut sugar if using. Bring to a simmer.
- Once the sauce is simmering, gently add the cooked meatballs back into the skillet. Stir gently to coat the meatballs in the curry sauce. Let everything simmer together for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional sea salt if needed.
- Serve the meatball curry warm, garnished with additional chopped green onions if desired. Enjoy it on its own or over a bed of cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- This dish freezes beautifully! Place cooled meatballs and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Gently reheat on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.
