Spicy Citrus Thai Meatballs

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

• 1/2 red bell pepper (diced small)

• 1 lb ground chicken (or turkey/lamb)

• 2 green onions (chopped)

• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

• 1 tbsp fresh ginger (grated)

• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)

• 1 egg

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

• Salt and pepper (to taste)

• Olive oil (for browning)

  
  

For the Sauce:

• 1/2 onion (thinly sliced)

• 1/2 red bell pepper (thinly sliced)

• 1 tbsp Thai red curry paste

• 1 can coconut milk

• 2 tbsp soy sauce

• 2 tbsp orange juice

• Salt and pepper (to taste)

  
  

For Serving:

• Rice (for serving)

• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

• Sesame seeds (for garnish)

  
  

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:

   • Thinly slice half of the red bell pepper and set it aside.

   • Dice the other half of the bell pepper into small pieces (note: cutting smaller helps the meatballs bind better).

   • In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken (or your choice of meat), diced bell pepper, chopped green onions, minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped cilantro, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until fully combined.

2. Form and Brown the Meatballs:

   • Shape the mixture into meatballs (about 1-2 inches in diameter).

   • Heat a little olive oil in a pan over medium heat and brown the meatballs on all sides. Once browned, remove the meatballs and set them aside.

3. Make the Sauce:

   • In the same pan, toss in the thinly sliced onion and bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

   • Add the Thai red curry paste, coconut milk, soy sauce, and orange juice. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.

   • Add the browned meatballs back into the pan and let them simmer in the sauce for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

4. Serve:

   • Serve the meatballs and sauce over a bed of rice.

   • Garnish with fresh cilantro and sesame seeds for a final touch of flavor and crunch.

Enjoy the flavorful Spicy Citrus Thai Meatballs! A perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and savory goodness.