Moroccan Cinnamon Meatballs in Tomato Sauce, Easy Recipe!

Name: Moroccan Cinnamon Meatballs in Tomato Sauce, Easy Recipe!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Moroccan
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef or lamb; 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro; 1/4 cup shredded onion (about 1 small onion); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander; 1/2 teaspoon sea salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for heat); 2 tablespoons avocado oil; 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes; 1 tablespoon maple syrup; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional); Fresh cilantro for garnish

Chef Hicham13 hours ago

0 0 17 minutes read

Moroccan Cinnamon Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

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How to Make Moroccan Cinnamon Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

Now that you’re all set with the ingredients, let’s dive into the heart of the matter: making these delightful Moroccan Cinnamon Meatballs in Tomato Sauce. I promise, it’s easier than you might think! With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a dish that’s bursting with flavor and sure to impress your family. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking!

Step 1 – Prep Ingredients

First things first, let’s get our ingredients ready. This is where the magic begins! Start by finely chopping your onion and cilantro. I like to use a sharp knife for this—there’s something satisfying about the sound of a good chop, isn’t there? If you’re short on time, you can even grab pre-chopped onions from the store. No judgment here!

Next, mince the garlic. I find that using a garlic press makes this step a breeze, but if you don’t have one, just chop it finely. Now, measure out your panko breadcrumbs and spices. Remember, the ground cinnamon is what gives these meatballs their Moroccan flair, so don’t skimp on it! Once everything is prepped, you’ll be ready to mix it all together.

Step 2 – Begin Cooking

Now, let’s get those meatballs sizzling! In a large frying pan, heat up some avocado oil over medium-high heat. I love using avocado oil because it has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, but feel free to use olive oil if that’s what you have on hand.

Once the oil is hot, it’s time to form your meatballs. Grab a handful of the meat mixture and roll it into a ball about the size of a golf ball. Place them gently in the pan, making sure not to overcrowd it. You want to give them space to brown nicely. Cook the meatballs for about 5-7 minutes, turning them occasionally until they’re golden brown all over. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly!

Step 3 – Combine Ingredients

Once your meatballs are beautifully browned, it’s time to create that luscious tomato sauce. Using the same pan (because who wants to do extra dishes?), pour in the can of diced tomatoes. The sound of those tomatoes hitting the hot pan is music to my ears! Add in the maple syrup, dried thyme, and crushed red pepper if you’re feeling adventurous.

Stir everything together and let it come to a gentle simmer. This is where the flavors start to meld together, creating a rich and comforting sauce. After a few minutes, gently reintroduce your meatballs back into the pan. Cover it up and let them simmer in that delicious tomato medley for about 15-20 minutes. This is the perfect time to set the table or pour yourself a glass of wine—because you deserve it!

Step 4 – Finish and Serve

After the meatballs have simmered to perfection, it’s time to serve! The sauce should be thick and fragrant, and the meatballs will be tender and flavorful. I like to garnish mine with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. You can serve these Moroccan Cinnamon Meatballs in Tomato Sauce on their own, or pair them with pasta or quinoa for a heartier meal.

And there you have it! A dish that’s not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. I can already picture your family gathered around the table, enjoying every bite. Trust me, they’ll be asking for seconds!

Introduction to Moroccan Cinnamon Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

Welcome to a culinary adventure that’s as comforting as a warm hug on a chilly evening! Today, I’m excited to share with you my recipe for Moroccan Cinnamon Meatballs in Tomato Sauce. This dish is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings a touch of North African spice right to your dinner table. Imagine tender meatballs infused with aromatic spices, simmered in a rich tomato sauce that’s both hearty and satisfying. It’s like a cozy blanket for your taste buds!

Now, I know that life can get pretty hectic, especially for busy American women aged 40 to 70. Between juggling work, family, and everything in between, finding time to cook can feel like a daunting task. That’s where this recipe shines! With just a handful of ingredients and a simple cooking process, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time. The prep takes only about 15 minutes, and the cooking time is just 25 minutes. In less than an hour, you’ll have a dish that not only nourishes but also warms the soul.

What I love most about these Moroccan Cinnamon Meatballs in Tomato Sauce is their versatility. They’re perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something quick yet flavorful. Plus, the comforting spices like cinnamon and cumin create a unique twist on traditional meatballs that your family will adore. Trust me, even the pickiest eaters will be asking for seconds!

So, if you’re ready to bring some excitement back into your kitchen without spending hours slaving over the stove, let’s dive into this easy recipe. I promise, you’ll be amazed at how simple it is to create a dish that feels like a special occasion. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Moroccan Cinnamon Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

Let’s talk about why this dish is going to become your new go-to recipe! First off, the Moroccan Cinnamon Meatballs in Tomato Sauce are a lifesaver for busy weeknights. With just 15 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking, you can have a delicious meal on the table in under an hour. That’s less time than it takes to scroll through social media, right? And trust me, your family will appreciate the effort you put into this flavorful dish.

One of the best parts? Minimal cleanup! I’m all about efficiency in the kitchen. You’ll only need a mixing bowl and a frying pan to whip up this meal. No need for a mountain of pots and pans to wash afterward. Just imagine: you can enjoy a delightful dinner and still have time to relax with a good book or catch up on your favorite show after the dishes are done. It’s a win-win!

Now, let’s talk flavors. The combination of spices in these meatballs is like a warm hug for your taste buds. The cinnamon adds a sweet warmth, while the cumin and coriander bring a savory depth that’s simply irresistible. It’s a delightful twist on traditional meatballs that will have your family raving about dinner long after the plates are cleared. Even the pickiest eaters will be intrigued by the unique flavors, and you might just find them asking for more!

Plus, this dish is incredibly versatile. You can serve it over pasta, quinoa, or even a bed of steamed veggies. It’s like a blank canvas that you can dress up however you like! Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal on a chilly evening or a quick dinner after a long day, these Moroccan Cinnamon Meatballs in Tomato Sauce fit the bill perfectly.

So, if you’re ready to shake things up in the kitchen and impress your family with a dish that’s both easy to make and bursting with flavor, this recipe is calling your name. Let’s get cooking and bring some Moroccan magic to your dinner table!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather our ingredients for these delightful Moroccan Cinnamon Meatballs in Tomato Sauce. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the rich flavors and comforting textures that make this dish so special. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ground beef or lamb: This is the star of the show! You can use either ground beef for a classic taste or lamb for a more traditional Moroccan flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works beautifully too.
Panko breadcrumbs: These light and crispy breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs while keeping them tender. If you’re gluten-free, feel free to swap them out for gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed gluten-free crackers.
Fresh cilantro: This herb adds a burst of freshness and a hint of brightness to the meatballs. If cilantro isn’t your thing, parsley is a great substitute that still brings a lovely flavor.
Shredded onion: Onions provide a sweet and savory base flavor. You can use yellow or white onions, or even green onions for a milder taste. If you’re short on time, pre-shredded onions from the store can save you a few minutes!
Garlic: Minced garlic adds depth and aroma to the meatballs. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work as a substitute, but fresh garlic is always best for that punch of flavor.
Egg: The egg acts as a binder, helping to hold the meatballs together. If you’re looking for an egg-free option, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) as a substitute.
Ground cinnamon: This is the secret ingredient that gives the meatballs their Moroccan flair! It adds warmth and sweetness. Don’t skip it; it’s what makes this dish unique!
Ground cumin: Cumin brings a nutty, earthy flavor that complements the cinnamon beautifully. If you’re out of cumin, a pinch of curry powder can add a different but delightful twist.
Ground coriander: This spice adds a citrusy note that brightens the dish. If you don’t have it on hand, you can omit it or use a bit more cumin for a similar effect.
Sea salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish. If you’re watching your sodium intake, feel free to reduce the amount or use a salt substitute.
Black pepper: A dash of black pepper adds a subtle heat. You can adjust this to your taste, or even use white pepper for a milder flavor.
Chili powder (optional): If you like a little kick, add some chili powder! It’s optional, so feel free to leave it out if you prefer a milder dish.
Avocado oil: This oil is perfect for frying the meatballs due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor. Olive oil is a great alternative if that’s what you have on hand.
Diced tomatoes: The base of our sauce! Canned diced tomatoes are convenient and packed with flavor. You can also use fresh tomatoes if you have them, just chop them up finely.
Maple syrup: This adds a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. If you prefer, honey or agave syrup can be used as a substitute.
Dried thyme: Thyme adds an earthy flavor that complements the other spices. If you have fresh thyme, feel free to use that instead—just double the amount!
Crushed red pepper (optional): For those who like it spicy, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper can elevate the dish. Adjust to your heat preference!
Fresh cilantro for garnish: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top adds a pop of color and freshness to your finished dish.

And there you have it! A simple yet flavorful lineup of ingredients that come together to create a dish your family will love. If you’re looking for printable measurements, don’t worry! You can find them at the end of the article. Now, let’s get ready to cook up some magic in the kitchen!