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Homemade Indonesian Meatballs photo

Indonesian Meatballs

These Indonesian Meatballs are bursting with flavor! Tender, spiced bites that transport you straight to the streets of Indonesia.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indonesian

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs:
  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs Panko preferred
  • 1 red chili pepper chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 5 green onions chopped
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1 egg
  • 2 teaspoons salt adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 teaspoon red curry paste optional
  • 2 tablespoons peanut oil for frying
  • 2 stalks lemongrass tender part only
  • 1 cup chicken broth low sodium recommended
  • 2 tablespoons red curry paste for the broth
  • 14 ounces unsweetened coconut milk
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt for broth
  • ½ teaspoon pepper for broth
  • 5 fresh Kaffir lime leaves
  • 2 tablespoons sweetened shredded coconut optional, for garnish
  • 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro for garnish

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Frying pan
  • Pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board

Method
 

Instructions:
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, chopped red chili pepper, minced garlic, garam masala, ground nutmeg, chopped green onions, chopped cilantro, egg, salt, pepper, and optional red curry paste. Mix everything together until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  2. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a plate or baking sheet as you go.
  3. In a large frying pan, heat the peanut oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  4. In a pot, heat a tablespoon of peanut oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped lemongrass and sauté for a minute until fragrant. Then, add the chicken broth, red curry paste, coconut milk, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
  5. Once the broth is simmering, gently add the fried meatballs to the pot. Toss in the Kaffir lime leaves and let everything simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
  6. Ladle the meatballs and broth into bowls. If desired, sprinkle with sweetened shredded coconut and additional chopped cilantro for a lovely garnish. Serve hot, and enjoy the flavors of Indonesia!

Notes

  • For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  • To make it vegetarian, substitute ground chicken with a plant-based protein.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.