Moroccan Meatballs with a Fresh Carrot Salad

By Suzanne Anderson June 19, 2023 33 mins read 151 Views

Moroccan meatballs are traditionally known as kefta. They're made from lean ground beef, boldly seasoned and pan-seared with Ras el Hanout until they become juicy. This meatball recipe is great served with a fresh, zesty carrot salad. This recipe is also included, as are other ways to enjoy the bite-sized delights.

These Moroccan meatballs showcase everything I love about the humble meatball--inexpensive, easy, juicy, and so flavorful.

Ras el Hanout is a traditional Moroccan spice blend that I use to flavor the ground lamb or beef in this recipe. It's a blend of warming spices that I use in my Pastilla recipe (Skillet Chicken Pie), Moroccan Lamb Stew, and other recipes. Ras el Hanout is your new favorite spice mix!

This meatball recipe is perfect for a casual dinner with pita pockets and minty carrots. If you're planning a large gathering, serve them as an appetizer on toothpicks with plenty of Tzatziki Sauce to dip.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Moroccan meatballs
How to Make Moroccan meatballs
What is Ras el Hanout?
Make the best Moroccan meatballs with these tips
How to serve Moroccan meatballs
Meatballs Recipes That Are More Than Just Delicious

Moroccan Meatballs

These perfectly seasoned meatballs pay homage to the street food of Marrakesh. You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry, even if you're a long flight away. Ras el Hanout is the exception. It's very easy to find in our shop.

White Bread:A toasted, or stale, slice of white bread, soaked with milk or water will help the meatballs remain juicy.
Meat : Use ground lamb or lean beef.
Flavormakers: Red onion Garlic and Cilantro give the dish a richer flavor. If you prefer, you can use shallots or yellow onions in place of the red onion. Parsley is a great alternative to cilantro if you don't like it.
Spices Ras El Hanout is a primary flavoring for these meatballs. I wouldn't substitute it. You can read more about the beautiful spice mixture in "What is Ras el Hanout?" below. Salt, Pepper, and Ginger will enhance the flavor. Cayenne will add some extra kick. Add a little more cayenne if you like spice. You can also leave out the cayenne if you're not a fan of spicy food.
Extra virgin oil:Used for cooking the meatballs, and dressing the salad. Use an olive oil with a buttery texture that is not bitter. We recommend our Italian Nocellara.
Carrots Salad: A simple salad consisting of carrots and oranges juice with mint. Olive oil, salt and pepper, as well as olive oil and mint, add crunchiness and freshness. Rainbow carrots are a great way to add some color to your platter. However, any large carrots will do.
Optional side dishes: You can take this recipe for beef meatballs in many different directions. I love to make pitas with thinly sliced shallots, Tzatziki sauce, fresh parsley and halved tomatoes. Flatbread, rice, Tahini Sauce and plain Greek yogurt are all delicious!

How to Make Moroccan Meatballs

They are easy to make, but they do require a little planning. Give yourself an extra 30 minutes to rest them in the fridge.

Prepare the meat. One slice of white toast and soak in milk or water until soft. After the bread has been soaked, squeeze out all of the water and place it in a large bowl. Add 1 1/4 pounds of ground beef to the bowl. Grate one small red onion, and then add 2 minced cloves of garlic, along with a handful chopped cilantro leaves.
Season the dough with 3 teaspoons Ras el Hanout and add 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger and 1/2 teaspoon cayenne. Add a generous amount of black pepper and kosher sea salt. Mix or knead the meat mixture with clean hands until it is well combined.
Make the meatballs and chill them. Roll the meat into small meatballs of about 1 tablespoon. When the meatballs have been shaped, place them on a tray. Cover. If you can, place the meatballs in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This will prevent the meatballs from breaking apart when cooked.
Prepare a carrot salad by using a vegetable peeler. After you have shaved your carrots, put them in a medium-sized mixing bowl. Add 3 tablespoons orange juice, a handful chopped mint leaves and plenty of olive oil. Add a pinch of pepper and salt, and mix well. Place in the fridge.
Prepare the fixings. Have ready any side dishes for serving, such as Pita bread or rice with Tzatziki sauce, Greek yogurt or Tahini.
Cook the meatballs. Over medium heat, warm a large skillet or cast iron pan. Then drizzle the olive oil over the meatballs. Cook the meatballs in the hot pan, rotating them occasionally, for about 7 minutes, or until they are cooked through and charred. If necessary, work in batches to avoid crowding the pan.
Serve. Arrange meatballs in a big platter. Along with the carrots, you can add any other toppings. Serve your family, friends, neighbors, and guests!

What is Ras el Hanout ?

The name Ras el Hanout translates as "top shelf" or "head of shop." This is the spice market's version of "give me your best." It is popular throughout North Africa, the Middle East and North Africa, but its origins can be traced back to Morocco.

The exact blend can vary from one region, store to another, or family to family. However, it is a complex mixture of 10 to 30 different spice types. It is a blend of sweet, spicy, and savory notes. It includes spices such as cinnamon, cumin and coriander. This versatile blend gives dishes like Pastilla, Lamb Stew and Couscous a Mediterranean flair.

Find this deliciously aromatic spice in your local Middle Eastern markets, spice sections of your grocery stores, or our online shop.

Tips on Making the Best Moroccan Meatballs

I believe that meatballs don't have to be perfect in order to be tasty. I count any meatballs that fall apart while cooking as chef's snacks to be enjoyed during the rest of my cooking. Here are some tips on how to make the best possible meatballs:

Make them smaller: I suggest meatballs that are a bit smaller than golf balls. The meatballs should be smaller than a golf ball.
Chill : It's amazing what a 30 minute chill in the fridge can do for a meatball. You can chill meatballs in the refrigerator before cooking if you have enough time. The proteins will begin to bond and the fat will solidify. Not only will your meatballs hold together better but they will also be more juicier.
Don't fry these meatballs, but pan-sear them instead. They will get a nice char if you use less oil. Brown the meatballs one at a time in a hot pan. Add just enough oil to your pan if you are having problems with sticking.
Note on serving size. This recipe will produce between 25 and 35 meatballs depending on the size. If you serve it in pita pockets, this recipe will feed 4 to 5 people. As an appetizer, you can serve up to 10 people.

How to serve Moroccan meatballs

The Moroccan meatballs are meant to be informal and welcoming; there's no wrong or right way to serve them.

Serve them as an appetiser with Zaalouk, a Moroccan eggplant salad or homemade hummus.

As they do in Marrakech, fill them into pita pockets to serve as dinner. Add olives and sliced cherry tomato, onions and fresh parsley. I drizzle on some Tzatziki or Tahini (personal choice) or plain Greek Yogurt.

Don't forget to try the simple carrot salad that I have included in this recipe. The carrots are shaved and tossed with olive oil, orange juice and mint. Bright and fresh flavors combine with warming spices to create a magical combination.

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Moroccan Meatballs

This Moroccan beef meatball recipe is a classic. Moroccan meatballs are traditionally known as kefta. They're made from lean ground beef, boldly seasoned and served with carrot salad.

Course Meat and Poultry

Cuisine Moroccan

Prep Time: 20 Minutes

Cook Time 20 Minutes

Chilling Time 30 Minutes

Total Time: 1 hour, 10 minutes

Servings

Calories 260.7 Kcal

Author Suzy Kardsheh

Ingredients

Morrocan Kefta Meatballs

1 slice white bread, toasted
Water or milk, for soaking
1 1/4 lb lean ground beef or lamb, or a mixture of both
1 small onion, grated
2 garlic cloves, minced
A small handful of fresh cilantro leaves, and tender stems. Chopped
3 teaspoon Ras El Hanout
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon cayenne, more if you enjoy spicy
Salt
Pepper
Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Carrot Salad

4 carrots, peeled
3 tablespoon orange juice (about 1/2 orange)
Handful fresh mint leaves, chopped
Salt
Black pepper
Extra Virgin Olive Oil

You can choose to serve yourself (optional).

Cherry tomatoes, halved
Red onion or shallots thinly sliced
Handful parsley sprigs
Marinated olives or feta
Tztaziki Sauce, Tahini Sauce, or plain Greek yogurt
Pita pockets, flatbread, or rice

Instructions

Add the milk or water to a large bowl and add the bread. Allow the bread to soak for a few minutes until it softens. Squeeze out the liquid, throw away the liquid, and add the bread back into the bowl. Add the minced meat, chopped onion, cilantro, Ras El Hanout (a Moroccan spice), ginger powder, and cayenne. Add a generous amount of black pepper and kosher sea salt. Mix the meat mixture with clean hands until it is well combined.
Make the meatballs and chill them: Roll the mixture into small meatballs (about 1 tablespoon per meatball). Place the meatballs on a baking tray, cover and refrigerate. If you have time, place in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This will prevent the meatballs falling apart once they are cooked. )
Use a vegetable peeler while the meatballs chill to shred the carrots into thin ribbons. (Or you can slice the carrots very thinly into sticks.) Add the carrots to a large mixing bowl with orange juice, fresh mint leaves and olive oil. Add a pinch of pepper and salt, and mix well. Put in the refrigerator for now. Prepare any other side dishes for serving, such as Pita Breads, Rice, Tzatziki Sauce, Tahini Sauce or Greek Yogurt.
Heat up a large skillet or cast iron pan on medium heat. Then drizzle the extra virgin olive on top of each meatball. Cook the meatballs in the hot pan, rotating them occasionally, for about 7 minutes, or until they are cooked through and charred. If necessary, work in batches to avoid crowding the pan.
Serve: Arrange meatballs in a large platter. Spread the carrots salad on the platter along with other toppings. Let your family, friends, neighbors, and guests dig in and serve themselves.

Video

Notes

To make the meatballs stay in shape, knead the mixture for a few moments with your hands. The heat from your body makes the meat stickier. If you have the time, place the meatballs in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This will allow the proteins and collagen to bond.
If your meatballs are sticking, you can coat the pan with a thin layer extra virgin olive and heat it up before adding them. Let them cook in the pan, unattended, until they form a brown crust and release from it.
Depending on the size, this recipe can yield 25-35 meatballs. If you serve it in pita pockets, or with rice for dinner, this recipe will feed 4 to 5 people. It will serve 10 people if you are serving it as an appetizer with other dishes.
Browse our shop for quality Mediterranean ingredients such as olive oil, honey, jams, and spices.

Nutrition

Carbohydrates: 14.7g

This post was recently updated to include new information.

The Mediterranean Dish first published the post Moroccan Meatballs with a Carrot Salad.

By: Suzy Karadsheh
Title: Moroccan Meatballs with a Fresh Carrot Salad
Sourced From: www.themediterraneandish.com/best-moroccan-meatballs/
Published Date: Mon, 19 Jun 2023 15:24:03 +0000

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Mediterranean diet predominantly plant-based

Yes, the Mediterranean Diet consists primarily of plants. This ancient diet is primarily based on plant-based foods, such as fruits and vegetables, legumes (nuts), and seeds. Red meat, poultry, and fish can also be found in smaller amounts due to their provenance around the Mediterranean Sea. These protein sources can be omitted for those opting for a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle within this eating style. For additional nutrition and protein, you can also consider other dairy sources like tofu or soy yogurt.

Rice in the Mediterranean diet?

Rice is both allowed and encouraged on the Mediterranean diet. This diet emphasizes whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes and healthy fats like olive oil and nuts. It also allows for moderate amounts of dairy products, fish and meat. Whole-grain white rice is a great carbohydrate source, providing energy for the body. Moreover, it also offers a good source of dietary fiber which can help improve digestion and provide essential nutrients for health, such as B vitamins, iron, and magnesium. It is possible to add rice to your dishes by cooking it in soups, salads, and stews. When eating rice-based dishes, it is important to limit the amount of fat.

Is Banana allowed in Mediterranean Diet?

Yes, bananas may be eaten on the Mediterranean Diet. Bananas are nutritious and low-calorie fruit that can provide beneficial dietary fiber, potassium, and vitamin B6. Bananas can be added to salads, porridge, smoothies, and sweet potato dishes as a healthy side dish. It could also be enjoyed as a snack with nut butter such as almond or peanut for added proteins. When following the Mediterranean diet, it may be beneficial to pair fruits such as bananas with a source of healthy fats like nuts and seeds to improve digestion and promote satiety when eating meals throughout the day.

What are the basic principles of the Mediterranean diet?

The Mediterranean diet is a lifestyle choice known for focusing on healthful and nutritious food choices and regular physical activity. This diet emphasizes fruits and vegetables, whole grains and legumes, as well as healthy fats like olive oil and nuts. There is also a moderate amount of dairy products, fish and meat. Red wine is encouraged in moderation. The basic principles of the Mediterranean diet are:

Eat mainly plant-based meals, including fruits, vegetables, whole grain bread and cereals, beans and legumes, nuts and seeds, and healthy fats such as olive oil and other olive oils. Also, eat small amounts yogurt (preferably notfat), low-fat cheese, yogurt, and minimal amounts of red and lean meats or poultry about once a week.
It is better to choose fresh ingredients than pre-packaged, processed foods whenever possible.
For a rich flavor, use herbs over salt.
Incorporate physical activity into your daily routine, like taking a walk after dinner or participating in an exercise class.
Enjoy meals with your family and friends, and enjoy the pleasure of sharing food.
You can practice mindful eating by paying more attention to the textures, flavors, and smells in your food. This will help you know when you are full or satisfied.

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The Mediterranean diet is affordable and easy to prepare. Many staple foods are found in local grocery stores or farmers' markets. But, it can be more expensive to shop for organic products or high-quality protein, as well as special items such extra virgin olive oils. You need to plan your meals according to your budget. It is also a good idea to save money on food by using leftovers or bulk freezing foods such as fish and grains.

Is it safe to drink milk on the Mediterranean Diet?

Yes, milk is permitted on the Mediterranean diet. Dairy products such as low-fat yogurt and cheese are an important part of this diet, providing calcium and other key nutrients. It is also nutritious, and milk should be consumed in moderation. It can also be used to make oatmeal and smoothies, if desired. For sustainable farming practices to be promoted when buying milk, it is best to use organic varieties. You can add milk to breakfast recipes such as avocado toast and smoothie bowls to get the essential vitamins and minerals you need for a healthy start.

Statistics

Choose fat-free or 1% milk, yogurt, and cottage cheese. (my.clevelandclinic.org)
One small study suggested that swapping one-half of your serving of a high-glycemic starch (like rice) with lentils helps lower the glycemic response by 20 percent. (everydayhealth.com)
In one study, the healthiest eaters at age 50 had a nearly 90% lower risk of dementia than those with the least healthy diets. (heart.org)
The research suggested that the diet reduced the risk of cardiovascular issues, including stroke, heart attack, and death, by about 30 percent compared with the control group. (medicalnewstoday.com)

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How the Mediterranean Diet can help you lose weight and feel great

The Mediterranean Diet is a diet that emphasizes healthy fats as well as whole grains, legumes, fresh fruits, and vegetables. It has been shown that it can have numerous health benefits including lower blood lipids, improved glucose management, reduced risk for certain types of cancer and depression, better cardiac and cognitive function, and better weight management. Here are some helpful tips to help you adopt the Mediterranean diet. You can start to swap out high-calorie snacks like chips and replace them with nutrient dense vegetables. Secondly, learn how to increase variety in your diet by adding spices or different sources derived from nuts, fruits, and vegetables. Incorporate grains, legumes, as well as high-fiber products to increase satisfaction after meals. These steps will help you enjoy your food, while also helping to improve your health.