Fried Meatballs (Hazelnut Meatballs) – Traditional Recipe
Welcome to today’s dish! We’re preparing fried meatballs, also known as hazelnut meatballs because their shape resembles hazelnuts. This dish is very popular in Tunisia and relies mainly on minced meat—beef, lamb, or even chicken.
It’s a simple yet delicious recipe, often served with fresh white bread, salad, tahini or garlic sauce (toum), and can also be paired with soup. Let’s get started!
Ingredients (Serves 5)
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1 kg ground meat (beef, lamb, or chicken)
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2 onions, finely chopped
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2 tbsp ground cumin
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1 tsp saffron powder
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½ cup fresh coriander, chopped
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2 tbsp salt and black pepper
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1 tsp dried mint
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1 cup flour (for coating)
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1 cup olive oil (or vegetable oil)
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Chili flakes or hot pepper (optional, to taste)
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6 garlic cloves, finely minced
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3 lemons, sliced
Preparation
Step 1 – Prepare the broth-like base:
In a pot, combine olive oil, a little water, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp dried mint, saffron, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and place over medium heat to let the flavors blend.
Step 2 – Prepare the meat mixture:
In a bowl, mix the ground meat with 1 minced garlic clove, 1 tbsp dried mint, salt, black pepper, and the finely chopped onions. Knead well until all ingredients are fully combined.
Step 3 – Shape the meatballs:
Form the seasoned meat into small balls, about the size of hazelnuts.
Step 4 – Cook the meatballs:
Place the meatballs directly into the simmering broth mixture. Let them cook slowly until tender and fully cooked through.
Step 5 – Serve:
Once done, remove the meatballs and arrange them on a platter. Garnish with fresh coriander and lemon slices. Serve hot with bread, salad, or tahini sauce.
⏱ Cooking time: 45–55 minutes.
✨ This is the authentic Tunisian Fried Meatballs (Hazelnut Meatballs)—juicy, aromatic, and infused with North African spices. A comforting dish that combines simplicity with rich flavor.
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