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Spicy Tunisian Meatballs

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A bold and flavorful North African dish made with tender meatballs simmered in a spicy harissa tomato sauce, olives, and aromatic spices — perfect with warm bread or couscous.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • For the Meatballs:
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef or lamb
  • 1 small onion, grated
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp ground coriander
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • For the Sauce:
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp harissa paste (or to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 1/2 cups crushed tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup green olives
  • 1/4 cup black olives
  • 1/2 cup water or broth
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Mix well and shape into small meatballs.
  2. Heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, then remove and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, sauté garlic for 30 seconds, then add harissa, cinnamon, and paprika. Stir to combine.
  4. Add crushed tomatoes and water or broth. Bring to a simmer.
  5. Return the meatballs to the sauce along with olives. Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with crusty bread, couscous, or rice.

Notes

  • Use lamb for a richer, more traditional flavor.
  • Adjust harissa quantity based on spice tolerance.
  • For a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for the last 5 minutes.
  • Make ahead and refrigerate — flavors deepen overnight.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://yumfoodusa.com/spicy-tunisian-meatballs/