Ghanaian-style Spiced Meatballs

Ingredients

In this Ghanaian adaptation, we have incorporated traditional Ghanaian ingredients and spices to give the dish an authentic Ghanaian flavor. The use of palm oil and groundnut paste adds a distinct nutty taste, while the combination of ginger, coriander, and cayenne pepper brings a spicy kick to the meatballs. We alse have the original recipe for Qofte fërguara, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger paste 1 tablespoon ginger paste
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 tablespoons palm oil 2 tablespoons palm oil
• 2 tablespoons groundnut paste 2 tablespoons groundnut paste
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 3g, 1g
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, ginger paste, ground coriander, cayenne pepper, palm oil, groundnut paste, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about the size of a golf ball.
3. 3.
   Heat a frying pan over medium heat and add a drizzle of palm oil. Place the meatballs in the pan, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
4. 4.
   Cook the meatballs for about 8-10 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they are browned and cooked through.
5. 5.
   Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
6. 6.
   Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Palm oil — Make sure to use sustainably sourced palm oil. If palm oil is not available, you can substitute it with vegetable oil.
• Groundnut paste — If groundnut paste is not available, you can use smooth peanut butter as a substitute.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a teaspoon of ground dried shrimp to the meatball mixture.
• If you prefer a milder spice level, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether.
• Serve the meatballs with a side of shito sauce for an additional Ghanaian twist.

Serving advice

These Ghanaian-style spiced meatballs are best served hot as a main course. They pair perfectly with jollof rice, banku, or even on their own as an appetizer. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a vibrant touch.

Presentation advice

Arrange the meatballs on a platter, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve alongside a bowl of shito sauce for dipping. For an elegant presentation, you can skewer the meatballs with toothpicks and serve them as bite-sized appetizers.