Middle Eastern Turkey Meatballs with Couscous

Infused with the warm, fragrant spices of the Middle East, these Turkey Meatballs with Couscous are a hearty and flavor-packed dish perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Tender turkey meatballs seasoned with cumin, coriander, and a hint of cinnamon are seared to golden perfection, then simmered in a savory broth for maximum juiciness. Paired with fluffy couscous brightened with fresh lemon zest, parsley, and mint, this dish strikes a perfect balance between earthy and fresh flavors. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s a quick yet elegant meal that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious. Serve it as is or pair with a refreshing cucumber yogurt sauce for an extra layer of indulgence! Perfect for fans of Middle Eastern cuisine, this recipe is a flavorful one-pot wonder that’s sure to impress.

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 500 g ground turkey
• 1 small, finely chopped onion
• 2 minced garlic cloves
• 60 g breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 0.5 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp salt
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 250 ml chicken or vegetable stock
• 200 g couscous
• 1 zested and juiced lemon
• 15 g finely chopped fresh parsley
• 15 g finely chopped fresh mint

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until fully incorporated.

Step 2

Using wet hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs, about the size of a golf ball. Set them aside on a plate.

Step 3

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches and sear on all sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the meatballs and set aside.

Step 4

In the same skillet, pour the chicken or vegetable stock and bring to a simmer. Return the meatballs to the skillet, cover, and cook for an additional 10 minutes, ensuring the meatballs are cooked through.

Step 5

Meanwhile, prepare the couscous by placing it in a heatproof bowl. Pour boiling water or additional stock over the couscous, just enough to cover it, and cover the bowl with a lid or plate. Let sit for 5-7 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

Step 6

Stir lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped parsley, and chopped mint into the couscous for added flavor.

Step 7

To serve, spoon the couscous onto individual plates or a large serving platter. Top with the turkey meatballs and spoon some of the pan sauce over the top. Garnish with additional parsley or mint if desired.

Step 8

Serve warm and enjoy this hearty, flavorful dish!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1316.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1655.5

Total Fat 77.8g	0%
Saturated Fat 18.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.8g
Cholesterol 574.4mg	0%
Sodium 5100.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 121.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 12.6g	0%
Total Sugars 12.1g
Protein 123.6g	0%

Vitamin D 53.8IU	0%
Calcium 299.8mg	0%
Iron 17.7mg	0%
Potassium 913.3mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 41.7%

Protein: 29.4%

Carbs: 28.9%