Algerian Meatballs in a Chickpea Sauce – Mtewem

ground beef

🥗Healthier: ground turkey

💰Cheaper: ground pork

Ground turkey is leaner and lower in calories.

chickpeas

🥗Healthier: lentils

💰Cheaper: canned beans

Lentils cook faster and are often less expensive.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil has a higher smoke point and is heart-healthy.

cumin

🥗Healthier: caraway seeds

💰Cheaper: ground coriander

Caraway seeds provide a similar earthy flavor.

Mix the meatball ingredients and add egg white gradually until a soft mixture is formed.

Form nut-sized meatballs and cover with plastic wrap; refrigerate.

In a saucepan, heat olive oil and ghee over medium heat.

Add minced onion, garlic, meat, chickpeas, and seasoning; cook for 10 minutes.

Add boiled water and cook for 30 to 45 minutes until meat and chickpeas are cooked.

If the meat needs more time and the sauce reduces, add boiled water as needed.

Once cooked, reduce heat to medium-low and add the meatballs; cover and cook for 15 to 20 minutes.

Add chopped parsley and turn off the heat.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary