Jerk Curry Turkey Meatballs

Here’s a flavorful recipe for jerk meatballs that combines the spicy, sweet, and savory notes characteristic of Caribbean cuisine.

Jerk Curry Turkey Meatballs

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• ½ cup of duke’s mayo or 1 large egg
• ½ white onion, finely chopped
• ½ red bell pepper, finely chopped
• ½ yellow, finely chopped
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1-1.2 tablespoons of spicy jerk sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Creamy Jerk Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon of spicy jerk sauce  
• 1 tablespoon of curry powder
• ½ cup of spinach

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatballs:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   • In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, mayo, onions, garlic, bell peppers, jerk sauce, and all seasonings. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
   • Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown.
2. Prepare the Jerk Sauce:
   • While the meatballs are baking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
   • Stir in whipping cream, jerk sauce, and curry powder
   • Add spinach. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
   • Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, until it slightly thickens.
3. Combine and Serve:
   • Once the meatballs are cooked, add them to the skillet with the creamy jerk sauce.
   • Toss the meatballs in the sauce until they are well coated.
   • Serve hot, garnished with additional chopped green onions or fresh herbs if desired.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve the jerk meatballs over steamed rice or with a side of plantains for a complete meal.
• They also make a great appetizer or party snack. Stick a toothpick in each meatball for easy serving.

Enjoy your jerk meatballs!

@nijyathedietitian

Y’all this is probably my favorite recipe I made this year 😋 These curry jerk meatballs have so much flavor and it’s reduced sodium. The full recipe is linked in my bio. This curry jerk meatball recipe is quick and a healthy meal idea. Don’t forget to tag me if you make this recipe ❤️ #dietitiansoftiktok #blackdietitian #meatballs #meatballrecipe #jerkrecipe

♬ original sound – Nijya MS, RDN, LD