Thai Spiced Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry

Introduction

There’s something magical about a dish that warms both the heart and the palate. When I first made Thai Spiced Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry, I knew I had stumbled upon a recipe that would become a family favorite. The combination of tender, flavorful chicken meatballs simmered in a rich, creamy coconut curry sauce was nothing short of delightful. The kids loved the meatballs, while the adults appreciated the depth of flavor and the slight kick from the curry paste. This dish has become our go-to for family gatherings and cozy weeknight dinners, and it always leaves us wanting more.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1/2 cup shredded zucchini (about 1 small zucchini)
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 2 shallots, chopped
• 2 teaspoons grated ginger
• 1 clove garlic, grated
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Black pepper, to taste
• 2 teaspoons tamari or soy sauce

For the Coconut Curry:

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 2 tablespoons salted butter
• 1-3 tablespoons Thai red curry paste (adjust to taste)
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 3 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 clove garlic, grated
• 1 shallot, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

For Serving:

• Fresh basil
• Lime wedges
• Cooked rice
• Additional green onions (optional)

Instructions

Make the Chicken Meatballs:

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, shredded zucchini, green onions, 1 chopped shallot, 2 teaspoons grated ginger, grated garlic, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and tamari. Mix until well combined.
2. Form the mixture into tablespoon-sized meatballs and set aside.

Sear the Meatballs:

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the meatballs to the skillet and sear for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally until browned on all sides.
3. Transfer the browned meatballs to a plate and set aside.

Prepare the Coconut Curry:

1. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Sauté the shallot, garlic, and ginger for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced red bell pepper, butter, and Thai red curry paste, cooking for 2 minutes until the mixture is well combined.

Simmer the Meatballs:

1. Pour in the coconut milk and tamari, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet.
2. Allow the sauce to simmer, then gently add the meatballs back into the skillet.
3. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the meatballs are fully cooked and heated through.

Add Fresh Herbs:

1. Stir in the chopped cilantro and adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve:

1. Serve the meatballs and coconut curry over rice.
2. Garnish with fresh basil, additional cilantro, green onions, and lime wedges for a burst of flavor.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Servings: 4
• Calories: 450
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g
• Cholesterol: 80mg
• Sodium: 600mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve over cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine).
• Garnish with:
• Fresh basil leaves
• Lime wedges
• Chopped green onions
• Additional cilantro
• Offer a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Additional Tips

1. Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, start with 1 tablespoon of curry paste and adjust to taste.
2. Meat Alternatives: Ground turkey or pork can be used as a substitute for ground chicken.
3. Make Ahead: Prepare the meatballs a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Cook the curry sauce when ready to serve.
4. Zucchini Substitute: If you don’t have zucchini, shredded carrots or finely chopped bell pepper can work too.
5. Leftover Curry: The coconut curry can be used as a sauce for other proteins or vegetables.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground chicken with chickpeas or lentils and bind with breadcrumbs and egg.
• Add Veggies: Include additional vegetables like snap peas, baby corn, or spinach for extra nutrition and color.
• Different Flavors: Experiment with different curry pastes, such as green or yellow curry for varied flavor profiles.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of steamed jasmine rice for an authentic Thai meal.
• Pair with a light salad to balance the richness of the curry.
• Offer naan or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Meatballs can be frozen before or after cooking. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use fresh ginger instead of grated ginger?
   Yes, fresh ginger is preferred for its flavor, but ground ginger can be used in a pinch.
2. How can I make this dish dairy-free?
   Ensure your butter is dairy-free or substitute with olive oil and check the ricotta cheese label for dairy-free options.
3. What can I use instead of tamari?
   Soy sauce is a great substitute, but be cautious if you’re avoiding gluten.
4. Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?
   Yes, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. How can I adjust the consistency of the curry?
   For a thicker curry, simmer longer to reduce, and for a thinner curry, add a splash of chicken broth or water.
6. Is this dish spicy?
   The spice level can be adjusted based on how much curry paste you use.
7. Can I use frozen chicken?
   It’s best to thaw ground chicken before using it for meatballs for even cooking.
8. What if I don’t have red curry paste?
   You can substitute with a green curry paste or even a mild curry powder, though the flavor will differ.
9. How long will leftovers last in the fridge?
   Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
10. What side dishes pair well with this meal?
    A simple cucumber salad or roasted vegetables make great sides.

Conclusion

Thai Spiced Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry is more than just a meal; it’s an experience filled with aromatic spices and comforting flavors. This dish brings a bit of Thai culture into your kitchen and is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying this for the first time, the ease of preparation and the delightful results will surely make it a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the warmth and vibrancy of this delicious dish with your loved ones!

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