The Perfect Holiday Appetizer: Thai Turkey Meatballs

Plated

There's nothing worse than a bland meatball, and there's nothing better than these absolutely delicious Thai turkey meatballs. With basil, jalapeño, lemongrass, ginger and clove you're not going to have a boring bite. Paired with a savory peanut dipping sauce, these flavors will have you glued to the appetizer table!



Thai Turkey Meatballs with Peanut Dipping Sauce

  • 1 ¼ pounds ground turkey

  • 4 garlic cloves, minced

  • 2 inch fresh ginger, peeled and minced

  • 3 inches fresh lemongrass, minced

  • 2 jalapeño chiles, seeded and minced

  • ¼ cup chopped fresh basil

  • 1 egg

  • ½ cup peanut butter

  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce

  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce

  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil

  • ½ cup hot water

  • salt and pepper

Combine

In a mixing bow mix the turkey, garlic, ginger, chiles, lemongrass, basil, egg, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper until well combined. Put vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, begin shaping the turkey mixture into 1 ½-inch meatballs and adding them to the skillet. Cook the meatballs, turning them occasionally and adjusting the heat so they don't burn, until they are brown all over and cooked through, about 15 minutes.

Make Sauce

Combine peanut butter, soy sauce, fish sauce, and ½ cup hot water. Whisk until the mixture is smooth.

Serve

Transfer the meatballs to a serving plate, and put the peanut sauce in a bowl on the side for dipping.

RECIPE: Spaghetti with Homemade Turkey Meatballs