Prepare to transport your taste buds to the vibrant island of Sri Lanka with this mouthwatering Bola Curry Beef Balls recipe that promises to revolutionize your dinner routine! Imagine tender, perfectly spiced beef meatballs swimming in a luxurious, creamy coconut curry sauce that will make your kitchen smell like a tropical paradise. Whether you're a curry enthusiast or a curious food adventurer, this recipe is about to become your new obsession – guaranteed to impress your family and leave dinner guests begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Sri Lankan
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 500g minced beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, minced
- 1 tsp curry powder
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups coconut milk
- 1 tbsp curry powder for gravy
- 2 tbsp oil
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine minced beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, minced ginger, 1 tsp curry powder, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Using clean hands, form the meat mixture into uniform-sized meatballs, approximately 3-4 cm in diameter. Ensure each ball is compact and holds together well.
- Heat oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Carefully place the beef meatballs into the pan, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Brown the meatballs on all sides, rotating them gently to achieve an even golden-brown color. This process should take about 8-10 minutes. Remove meatballs and set aside on a plate.
- In the same pan, add an additional tablespoon of oil if needed. Sprinkle 1 tbsp curry powder and briefly toast to release its aromatic flavors.
- Pour coconut milk into the pan, stirring to combine with the curry powder. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Carefully return the browned meatballs to the coconut curry sauce. Reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and let simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the meatballs to cook through and absorb the curry flavors.
- Check the meatballs for doneness by cutting one in half to ensure it's cooked completely. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
- Taste the gravy and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. The sauce should be rich, creamy, and have a subtle curry warmth.
- Serve hot, garnishing with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley if desired. Accompany with steamed rice or traditional Sri Lankan pol sambol for a complete meal.
Tips
- Meat Mixing Mastery: For the most tender meatballs, mix the ingredients gently and avoid overworking the meat, which can make them tough.
- Temperature is Key: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your meatballs reach the perfect internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safe and juicy results.
- Breadcrumb Trick: If your mixture seems too wet, add a few extra breadcrumbs to help bind the meatballs together.
- Coconut Milk Magic: Use full-fat coconut milk for a richer, more authentic curry sauce with deeper flavor.
- Spice Customization: Adjust the curry powder to your heat preference – add more for extra kick or reduce for a milder taste.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: These meatballs actually taste even better the next day, so don't hesitate to prepare them in advance!
- Serving Suggestion: For an authentic experience, serve with steamed rice or traditional Sri Lankan pol sambol to complete your culinary journey.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 120mg
