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Jerk Meatballs in Coconut Curry Sauce

Jerk Meatballs in Coconut Curry Sauce feature spiced meatballs simmered in creamy coconut curry with peppers and garlic.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Caribbean-inspired

Ingredients
  

For the Jerk Meatballs

  • 1 1/2 lbs ground pork
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup seasoned panko breadcrumbs
  • 4 cloves garlic finely minced
  • 1/4 cup sliced scallions plus more for garnish
  • 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon ginger paste or 2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • For the Coconut Curry Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 shallot finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 small green bell pepper thinly sliced
  • 1 small red bell pepper thinly sliced
  • 3 teaspoons Jamaican curry powder
  • 1 14-ounce can full-fat coconut milk

For Serving

  • Cooked rice
  • Sliced scallions for garnish

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl, combine ground pork, egg, panko breadcrumbs, garlic, scallions, jerk seasoning, ginger, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
  • Use a scoop or spoon to portion the mixture into about 20–22 meatballs. Roll them gently between your palms until smooth.
  • Place the meatballs on a baking sheet or plate.
  • Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons butter and olive oil.
  • Once hot, add the meatballs in batches and cook until browned and slightly crisp, about 3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
  • Carefully discard the excess grease and wipe the skillet clean.
  • Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet and sauté the chopped shallot for 2–3 minutes until softened.
  • Add garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Stir in the sliced bell peppers and cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly tender.
  • Sprinkle in the Jamaican curry powder and stir to toast the spices for about 1 minute.
  • Pour in the coconut milk and stir until the sauce is smooth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
  • Add the meatballs back into the skillet in a single layer. Spoon sauce over the top.
  • Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through.
  • Serve the Jerk Meatballs in Coconut Curry Sauce over warm rice and garnish with sliced scallions.

Notes

You can substitute ground chicken or ground turkey if you prefer a lighter meatball. For extra vegetables, add spinach, carrots, or zucchini to the coconut curry sauce.