Spiced moroccan meatball soup

Spiced Moroccan Meatball Soup combines aromatic North African spices with tender meatballs and hearty vegetables, creating a flavorful and warming dish. This soup is perfect for cozy dinners and features a rich chicken gravy base along with a touch of couscous and toasted almonds.

14 Jan 2026
Cook time 25 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion
2 garlic cloves
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp ginger
2 tsp ground cumin
1/4 cup coriander leaves
1 tsp chili powder
2 carrots
2 zucchini
4 cups chicken gravy
18 oz ground beef (80/20%)
1 egg
1/3 cup bread crumbs
1 cup couscous
1/2 cup almonds
Spiced moroccan meatball soup

Spiced Moroccan Meatball Soup is a hearty, flavorful, and aromatic dish that combines the warmth of North African spices with tender meatballs and wholesome vegetables. This soup is an excellent meal for cozy dinners and is sure to tantalize your taste buds with its rich and exotic flavors.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, bread crumbs, 1/2 of the chopped coriander leaves, 1/2 tsp ground cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
2. Cook the Meatballs:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the meatballs in batches, cooking until browned on all sides (they do not need to be cooked through). Remove the meatballs and set aside.
3. Prepare the Soup Base:
- In the same pot, add the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, remaining cumin, and chili powder. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the spices are fragrant.
4. Add Vegetables and Broth:
- Add the diced carrots and zucchini to the pot and stir to coat with the spices.
- Pour in the chicken gravy and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Simmer the Soup:
- Reduce the heat to low and add the browned meatballs back into the pot.
- Cover and let simmer for about 20-25 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the meatballs are cooked through.
6. Prepare the Couscous:
- While the soup is simmering, prepare the couscous according to the package instructions.
7. Serve the Soup:
- To serve, ladle the soup into bowls.
- Add a spoonful of couscous to each bowl.
- Garnish with the remaining chopped coriander leaves and the toasted almonds.

Spiced Moroccan Meatball Soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is sure to become a favorite in your home. Its perfect blend of spices and textures creates a satisfying and comforting meal. Enjoy it with family and friends and savor the robust flavors of Moroccan cuisine.

Spiced moroccan meatball soup FAQ:

What is the recommended cooking time for the meatballs?

The meatballs should be cooked in batches for about 5-7 minutes until browned on all sides. They do not need to be cooked through at this stage since they will finish cooking in the soup.

How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through in the soup?

The meatballs are cooked through when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and the vegetables are tender, which takes about 20-25 minutes of simmering in the soup.

Can I substitute ground beef with another meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or lamb as alternatives to ground beef. Adjust the cooking times as needed, and keep in mind that different meats may alter the flavor slightly.

What is the best way to store leftovers of this soup?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

What can I use instead of couscous?

If you want a substitute for couscous, you can use quinoa, rice, or any other grain of your choice. Adjust cooking time according to the grain's package instructions.

Tips:

- Ensure the meatballs are well-seasoned by mixing the ground beef, egg, and breadcrumbs thoroughly.

- Chop the vegetables into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

- Toast the almonds before adding them to the soup to enhance their flavor.

- For a richer taste, you can use homemade chicken gravy or stock instead of store-bought.

- Add the couscous towards the end of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.

- Garnish the soup with fresh coriander leaves for a burst of freshness and additional flavor.

- Adjust the amount of chili powder based on your preferred spice level.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 690kcal
Protein 33g
Carbohydrates 45g
Fiber 8g
Sugar 10g
Fat 50g

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