Name: Thai Red Curry Turkey Meatballs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 pound ground turkey; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 tablespoon fish sauce; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 tablespoon lime juice; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

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Introduction

Experience the vibrant flavors of Thailand with these Thai Red Curry Turkey Meatballs. Tender turkey meatballs are simmered in a rich and creamy coconut curry sauce, bursting with fragrant spices and fresh herbs. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels both comforting and exotic.

This image shows six browned meatballs with a slightly crispy texture on their surface, resting in a layer of bright orange sauce with visible oil droplets. The meatballs are sprinkled with fresh green chopped herbs and small pieces of red chili peppers. Two lime wedges are placed at the back on a white plate. The plate sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound ground turkey
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon lime juice (for sauce)
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, chopped cilantro, fish sauce, lime juice, garlic powder, grated ginger, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 2: Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter and set aside.
Step 3: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until they are browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: In the same skillet, add the coconut milk, Thai red curry paste, brown sugar, and lime juice. Stir well to combine and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet and gently coat them with the curry sauce. Let everything simmer together for an additional 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
Step 6: Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves for a fragrant, colorful finish.

Tips & Variations

For extra heat, add a chopped fresh chili or increase the red pepper flakes in the meatball mixture.
Substitute ground chicken or pork if turkey is not available.
Serve the curry meatballs over jasmine rice or rice noodles to soak up the delicious sauce.
Fresh basil can be swapped for Thai holy basil or cilantro if preferred.

Storage

Store leftover meatballs and curry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. Avoid boiling to preserve the texture of the meatballs.

How to Serve

A white round bowl filled with many small, round brown meatballs, covered in a thick, smooth orange sauce. Some fresh green herb leaves are scattered on top as garnish. A silver spoon rests inside the bowl on the right side. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with a black and white striped cloth partially under it. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs a day in advance and refrigerate them before cooking. This helps the flavors develop and makes the cooking process faster on the day you plan to serve.

Is Thai red curry paste spicy?

Thai red curry paste has a moderate level of spiciness, balanced by aromatic herbs and coconut milk. You can adjust the heat by using less paste or choosing a milder version if preferred.