Thai Red Curry Turkey Meatballs

If you’re looking for a delightful twist on traditional meatballs, then these Thai Red Curry Turkey Meatballs are the perfect dish to try! Bursting with flavor and a touch of warmth from the curry, these meatballs are not only delicious but also easy to prepare. With healthy ground turkey at the heart of the recipe, your taste buds are in for a treat without any guilt. Serve them up in a savory coconut curry sauce, and you have a meal that’s sure to impress family and friends alike!

Top Reasons to Make Thai Red Curry Turkey Meatballs

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of red curry paste, ginger, and lemongrass creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.
• Healthy Option: Ground turkey is a lean meat, making these meatballs a healthier alternative to traditional beef or pork options.
• Versatile Dish: These meatballs can be served over rice, noodles, or even on a bed of fresh greens for a lighter option.
• Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in no time, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredient Checklist

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 4 green onions, chopped
• ½ cup cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon red curry paste
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• 3 tablespoons peanut oil
• 4 tablespoons red curry paste (for the sauce)
• 2 teaspoons lemongrass paste (or 2 stalks of lemongrass)
• 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, finely grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 14-ounce coconut milk (1 can)
• 5 kaffir lime leaves (fresh or dried)
• 1 tablespoon sugar

Equipment & Tools

• Mixing Bowl: For combining meatball ingredients.
• Baking Sheet: To bake the meatballs in the oven.
• Large Skillet: For cooking the meatballs and making the sauce.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For mixing and stirring.

Thai Red Curry Turkey Meatballs — Do This Next

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, chopped green onions, cilantro, fish sauce, red curry paste, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well incorporated, but be careful not to overmix.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 3: Bake the Meatballs

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Step 4: Make the Curry Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, heat the peanut oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the red curry paste, lemongrass paste, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 5: Add Liquids

Pour in the chicken broth and coconut milk. Add the kaffir lime leaves and sugar. Stir well to combine, and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 6: Combine Meatballs and Sauce

Once the meatballs are cooked, carefully transfer them to the skillet with the curry sauce. Gently toss to coat the meatballs in the sauce and let them simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Warm & Cool Weather Spins

• Warm Weather: Serve the meatballs over a bed of fresh greens or rice noodles for a lighter meal.
• Cool Weather: Pair with steamed jasmine rice and a side of roasted vegetables for a hearty comfort dish.

Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them

• Dry Meatballs: Ensure not to overbake the meatballs. Check for doneness around the 20-minute mark to keep them moist.
• Too Spicy: Adjust the amount of red curry paste based on your spice tolerance. Start with less and add more as needed.
• Clumpy Sauce: Whisk the coconut milk and broth together thoroughly before adding to the skillet to prevent clumps.

Storage & Reheat Guide

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the meatballs and sauce in a skillet over medium-low heat until heated through. You can also microwave them, but be sure to cover the dish to retain moisture.

• Freezing: These meatballs freeze well! Store cooked meatballs in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Thawing: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for the best texture.

Quick Questions

Can I use another type of meat instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken or even lean beef can be substituted if you prefer a different flavor profile.

What if I can’t find kaffir lime leaves?

If you can’t find kaffir lime leaves, you can omit them or use a small amount of lime zest for a similar citrusy aroma.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time, store them separately, and then combine and heat before serving.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Next Up in Your Queue

• Spicy Thai Basil Chicken
• Coconut Shrimp Curry
• Vegetable Pad Thai
• Mango Sticky Rice

Final Bite

These Thai Red Curry Turkey Meatballs are more than just a meal; they are an experience filled with vibrant flavors and comforting textures. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home or an impressive dish to serve at gatherings, they are sure to become a new favorite. Dive into this flavorful dish and enjoy the wonderful combination of spices that make it truly special. Happy cooking!