🥥🍛🍡 Thai Curry Coconut Meatballs
🍽️ Servings:
4 (makes ~16 meatballs)
⏱️ Time:
Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 25 mins | Total: ~45 mins
🛒 Ingredients:
🍡 For the Meatballs:
1 lb ground chicken or turkey (or pork/beef if preferred)
2 garlic cloves, minced 🧄
1 small shallot or 1/4 onion, finely minced 🧅
2 tsp grated fresh ginger 🌿
1 tbsp fish sauce (or soy sauce) 🐟
1 tsp red curry paste (optional for extra flavor) 🌶️
1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
1 egg 🥚
Salt & pepper, to taste
🥥 For the Coconut Curry Sauce:
1 tbsp coconut oil or neutral oil
1 tbsp red curry paste (adjust to taste) 🌶️
1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk 🥥
1 tsp brown sugar 🍯
1 tbsp fish sauce or soy sauce
Juice of 1/2 lime 🍈
Fresh cilantro or Thai basil, for garnish 🌿
🔪 Instructions:
🍡 Step 1: Make the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine all meatball ingredients and mix gently until just combined.
Roll into 1.5-inch balls (~16 total).
Chill for 10 minutes (optional, helps them hold shape).
🔥 Step 2: Brown the Meatballs
Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of oil.
Add meatballs and cook until browned on all sides (about 6–8 mins).
Remove and set aside (they’ll finish cooking in the sauce).
🍛 Step 3: Make the Coconut Curry Sauce
In the same skillet, add a touch more oil and sauté red curry paste for 1 minute.
Stir in coconut milk, fish sauce, brown sugar, and lime juice. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Taste and adjust: more curry paste = more heat 🔥
🫕 Step 4: Simmer It All Together
Gently return meatballs to the skillet.
Cover and simmer for 8–10 minutes, until meatballs are fully cooked and infused with the curry sauce.
Sauce should thicken slightly. If too thick, add a splash of water or broth.
🌿 Step 5: Serve & Garnish
Plate over jasmine rice, noodles, or even in lettuce cups. 🍚🥬
Garnish with chopped cilantro, Thai basil, or a sprinkle of toasted coconut 🥥
Add lime wedges and sliced red chili for a pop! 🍈🌶️
✨ Tips for a Flavor Bomb:
Want extra creaminess? Add 1 tbsp peanut butter to the sauce 🥜
Add baby spinach or snow peas in the last few minutes for a veggie boost 🌱
Not a fan of spice? Use yellow curry paste for a milder version 💛
🧡 Why You'll Crave This:
Comforting & cozy, but bright and exotic
Kid-friendly (just reduce curry paste)
Freezes beautifully for meal prep!