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The BEST Easy Thai Red Curry Meatballs Recipe

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3.9 from 35 reviews

These Easy Thai Red Curry Meatballs feature tender turkey meatballs simmered in a rich, creamy Thai red curry sauce made with coconut milk, fresh herbs, and a hint of chili. Ready in just 30 minutes, this flavorful dish combines aromatic spices and fresh ingredients for an authentic Thai-inspired meal perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 15 meatballs

Ingredients

Meatballs

  • 500 g turkey mince (ground turkey)
  • 3 garlic cloves (grated or minced)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh ginger (minced)
  • 1/2 bunch coriander (cilantro) (chopped)
  • 2 tablespoons oil (for searing the meatballs)

Sauce

  • 1 small brown onion (finely diced)
  • 100 g Thai red curry paste
  • 400 g tin full fat coconut milk
  • juice of 1 lime
  • 1/2 bunch fresh basil (chopped)
  • 1/2 bunch fresh coriander (chopped)
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
  • 3 spring onions (finely sliced)

Instructions

  1. Mix meatballs: In a medium bowl, combine the turkey mince, grated garlic, minced ginger, and chopped coriander. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors. Use a tablespoon to scoop out portions, then roll the mixture into meatballs with damp hands. Place the formed meatballs on a lined baking tray as you work.
  2. Sear meatballs: Heat the oil in a medium nonstick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs and sear them on all sides until they turn golden brown. This seals in the juices and adds flavorful crust. Remove the browned meatballs from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
  3. Prepare sauce: Drain all but 1 tablespoon of oil from the skillet. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent, which helps develop the base flavor of the curry.
  4. Add curry paste: Stir in the Thai red curry paste using a whisk, cooking it briefly to release its aromas and deepen its flavor.
  5. Add coconut milk: Pour the coconut milk into the skillet and whisk thoroughly to blend it with the curry paste, creating a smooth, rich sauce. Add chili flakes at this stage if you desire extra heat.
  6. Simmer meatballs: Bring the sauce to a simmer, then add the seared meatballs back to the skillet. Cook the meatballs for 15-20 minutes, ensuring they are cooked through and have absorbed the flavorful sauce.
  7. Finish with herbs and garnish: Stir in the chopped fresh basil and coriander for brightness and fresh herbal notes. Sprinkle the sliced spring onions on top as a final garnish before serving.

Notes

  • Use damp hands when rolling meatballs to prevent sticking.
  • Adjust chili flakes according to preferred spice level.
  • Serve with steamed jasmine rice or rice noodles for a complete meal.
  • Ensure turkey meatballs are cooked fully (internal temperature 74°C/165°F) for safety.
  • The recipe can be doubled easily for larger groups.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Thai