Dinner

Moroccan Turkey Meatballs with Citrus Couscous Recipe

Name: Moroccan Turkey Meatballs with Citrus Couscous Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Moroccan
Ingredients: 500g turkey mince; 2 tsp chilli powder; 2 tsp ground cumin; 2 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp cinnamon; 1 onion, coarsely grated; Zest of 1 orange; 250g couscous; 250ml hot chicken stock; Chopped segments of 1 peeled orange; 2 tsp olive oil; Small bunch coriander, roughly chopped; Seasoning (salt and pepper) to taste

ByLuna Ryder November 17, 2025November 17, 2025

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Introduction

These Moroccan turkey meatballs with citrus couscous offer a flavorful and vibrant meal that’s both healthy and satisfying. Infused with warm spices and fresh orange, this dish brings a delightful twist to midweek dinners.

The image shows a white plate with two main parts: on one side, there are six round, brown, cooked meatballs arranged closely together with a slightly crispy texture; on the other side, there is a bed of yellow couscous mixed with small green herb pieces and chunks of orange fruit. The plate is placed on a soft blue cloth napkin with a silver fork on the right side, all set on a white marbled surface. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

500g pack turkey mince
2 tsp chilli powder
2 tsp ground cumin
2 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp cinnamon
1 onion, coarsely grated
Zest of 1 orange, peeled and orange segments chopped
250g couscous
250ml hot chicken stock
2 tsp olive oil
Small bunch coriander, roughly chopped

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the turkey mince, chilli powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, cinnamon, grated onion, and orange zest. Mix well using your hands until fully incorporated.
Step 2: Shape the mixture into about 20 walnut-sized meatballs and set aside.
Step 3: Place the couscous in a bowl, pour over the hot chicken stock, cover with cling film, and let it stand for 10 minutes to absorb the liquid.
Step 4: Heat the olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning frequently, for about 12 minutes until browned on all sides and cooked through.
Step 5: Fluff the couscous with a fork, then stir in the chopped orange segments, chopped coriander, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve the meatballs on plates alongside the citrus couscous for a fresh and aromatic dish.

Tips & Variations

For a different twist, try making Moroccan turkey jackets: fry the turkey mince, spices, and orange zest as above, then spoon the mixture over baked sweet potatoes and top with a dollop of yogurt.

Storage

Store leftover meatballs and couscous separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water or stock to keep the couscous moist.

How to Serve

A white bowl holds six browned meatballs arranged in a cluster on one side, each with a textured, slightly crispy surface. Next to the meatballs, there is a serving of yellow couscous mixed with small green herb pieces and scattered small orange chunks, creating a colorful contrast. The bowl sits on a folded blue cloth napkin, and a silver spoon is placed to the right on a white marbled surface. The scene is well-lit with soft natural light. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use beef or lamb instead of turkey mince?

Yes, beef or lamb can be substituted, but turkey keeps the dish lighter and lower in fat. Adjust cooking times as needed to ensure the meat is cooked through.