Recipe | Mtewem | Algerian Meatballs in a Chickpeas Sauce

ground beef

🥗Healthier: ground turkey

💰Cheaper: ground pork

Ground turkey is leaner, while ground pork is often less expensive.

chickpeas

🥗Healthier: lentils

💰Cheaper: canned beans

Lentils provide similar texture and nutrition, while canned beans are often cheaper.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil has health benefits, while canola is more budget-friendly.

parsley

🥗Healthier: spinach

💰Cheaper: kale

Spinach offers similar flavor and nutrients, while kale is often less expensive.

Soak chickpeas overnight in water.

Drain chickpeas and rinse under cold water.

Mix ground beef with chopped onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt.

Form the mixture into meatballs about the size of a golf ball.

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.

Brown meatballs on all sides, about 5-7 minutes, then remove and set aside.

In the same pot, add more olive oil if needed and sauté remaining onion and garlic until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.

Add drained chickpeas, vegetable broth, bay leaves, and lemon juice; bring to a simmer.

Return meatballs to the pot, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.

Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.

Garnish with chopped parsley and cilantro before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: