Air Fryer Friendly Jumbo Lamb Meatballs with Pearled Moroccan Cous Cous and Chimichurri Sauce
Embark on a culinary adventure with these Lamb Meatballs with Moroccan Pearled Couscous and Chimichurri Sauce! This recipe combines the warmth of lamb meatballs with the vibrant flavors of Morocco, offering a unique and delicious dining experience.
Equipment
- Air Fryer (optional)
- Ice cream scooper (optional)
- Baking sheet (optional)
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Saute pan with fitted lid
- Food Processor
Ingredients
For the Lamb Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Moroccan Pearled Couscous:
- 1 cup pearl couscous
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 red pepper diced and sauteed
- 1/2 orange pepper diced and sauteed
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
- 1/4 cup raisins optional
- 1/4 cup chopped almonds optional
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cups vegetable broth or 1 teaspoon vegetable bouillon plus 2 cups water
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Chimichurri Sauce (optional):
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup fresh mint
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
For the Lamb Meatballs:
- If using the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- If using the Air Fryer: Preheat the fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine lamb, onion, parsley, mint, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cayenne pepper (if using), breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until just combined.
- Using an ice cream scoop or large spoon, roll the mixture into 2-inch meatballs.
- If using the Oven: Transfer the meatballs to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
- If using the Air Fryer: Spray the tray with nonstick cooking spray and transfer the meatballs to the fryer tray spaced out approximately ½” apart. Fry for approximately 10 minutes or until cooked through.
For the Moroccan Pearled Couscous:
- In a large saucepan, saute the peppers in olive oil for 2-3 minutes. Add the garlic and continue sauteeing until soft.
- Scoop into a bowl and set aside.
- Add 2 cups vegetable broth or water plus vegetable bouillon to the pan and bring to a boil.
- Add the couscous and seasoning, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 5-6 minutes.
- Add your desired fixings (raisins, almonds, parsley, etc) and continue to simmer covered until the couscous is cooked through and fluffy, another 3 minutes or so.
- Turn off the heat and stir in the sauteed peppers.
- Fluff the couscous with a fork and season with salt and pepper to taste.
For the Chimichurri Sauce (optional):
- In a food processor, combine parsley, cilantro, olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Pulse until well chopped but not completely smooth.
Assemble the Dish:
- Divide the cooked couscous among plates or pour into a large serving bowl. Top with lamb meatballs and spoon chimichurri sauce over the top.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and enjoy!
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, substitute ground lamb with lentils or chickpeas.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your desired level of spiciness.
- Serve with a side of yogurt or raita for a cooling contrast.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This recipe is a wonderful way to explore the vibrant flavors of Moroccan cuisine. With its tender lamb meatballs, fragrant couscous, and fresh chimichurri sauce, it promises to be a delicious and satisfying experience for your taste buds. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary adventure to Morocco!