Name: Jerk Meatballs in Coconut Curry Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Jamaican
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs ground pork; 1 large egg; 1/2 cup seasoned panko breadcrumbs; 4 cloves garlic, finely minced; 1/4 cup sliced scallions, plus more for garnish; 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning (Walkerswood recommended); 1 teaspoon ginger paste or 2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger; Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for sauce base); 1 shallot, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small green bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1 small red bell pepper, thinly sliced; 3 teaspoons Jamaican curry powder; 1 (14 ounce) can full-fat coconut milk; Rice, as desired; Sliced scallions, for garnish

There is something truly magical about the bold, vibrant flavors of the Jerk Meatballs in Coconut Curry Sauce Recipe that instantly transports you to a Caribbean paradise. Combining spicy, aromatic jerk seasoning with a rich, velvety coconut curry sauce, this dish strikes the perfect balance between heat and creaminess. Each juicy meatball bursts with layers of flavor, while the sauce wraps everything in a luscious coat of warmth and comfort. Whether you’re craving something cozy yet exciting or looking to impress guests with a fusion of tropical tastes, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s both approachable and unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl holds several ingredients arranged but not mixed. The base is raw pink ground meat in two main clumps. On the top left side is a small pile of light yellow breadcrumbs. Next to breadcrumbs, a small heap of chopped fresh green onions sits at the top right. Below the onions, a single raw egg yolk is visible with a bright yellow color. In the center is a dollop of pale yellow minced garlic with black pepper sprinkled over it. Below the garlic, a dark brown paste with a coarse texture rests as one distinct portion. The bowl is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

As simple as these ingredients might seem, each plays a crucial role in making the Jerk Meatballs in Coconut Curry Sauce Recipe sing with flavor and texture. From the juicy ground pork to the fragrant curry powder, every item contributes something essential to the dish’s vibrant personality and inviting aroma.

Ground pork: This hearty base creates moist, tender meatballs that soak up the spices beautifully.
Egg: Acts as the perfect binder to keep your meatballs together without making them dense.
Seasoned panko breadcrumbs: Adds just the right amount of chew and texture while keeping meatballs light.
Garlic (finely minced): Infuses a warm, pungent depth that wakes up the palate.
Sliced scallions: Bring fresh, subtle onion notes and a hint of crunch.
Jerk seasoning: The soul of this recipe, packed with smoky, spicy, and earthy elements.
Ginger paste or fresh ginger: Adds sharp zest and a bit of brightness to the blend.
Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
Unsalted butter: Used in two steps to add rich, creamy layers to both meatballs and sauce.
Olive oil: Assists in frying the meatballs to a perfect golden crust.
Shallot (finely chopped): Offers a mild, sweet onion flavor that complements the curry sauce.
Green and red bell peppers: Add color, sweetness, and a subtle crunch when sautéed.
Jamaican curry powder: A fragrant spice blend that brings authentic Caribbean warmth and flavor.
Full-fat coconut milk: Creates a creamy, luscious sauce with a hint of natural sweetness and tropical richness.
Rice and scallions for serving (optional): Perfect companions that soak up the sauce and add freshness.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Jerk Meatballs in Coconut Curry Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Start by combining the ground pork with egg, seasoned panko, minced garlic, sliced scallions, jerk seasoning, ginger, and salt and pepper in a large bowl. Use your hands to gently bring everything together – just until combined. The key is not to overmix, so your meatballs remain tender and juicy.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Using a medium spring-loaded scooper, form about 20 to 22 even-sized meatballs. Then roll them gently in your palms until smooth. This uniformity ensures they cook evenly and develop that perfect, golden crust.

Step 3: Brown the Meatballs

Heat butter and olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat until sizzling. Working in batches, add the meatballs, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook until browned and lightly crisped on all sides, about 3 minutes each side. Transfer browned meatballs to a clean plate and continue until all are cooked.

Step 4: Prepare the Coconut Curry Sauce

Discard any excess grease from the skillet and wipe it clean. Add the remaining butter and sauté shallots until tender, about 2 to 3 minutes. Toss in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the sliced green and red bell peppers, cooking until softened, roughly 2 to 3 minutes more.

Step 5: Build the Flavor Base

Sprinkle Jamaican curry powder over the veggies, stirring constantly to toast the spices for about one minute. Then pour in the full-fat coconut milk, stirring well to combine all those incredible flavors. Bring to a gentle boil before reducing the heat to low to maintain a simmer.

Step 6: Simmer the Meatballs in Sauce

Carefully nestle the browned meatballs into the simmering coconut curry sauce in a single layer. Spoon additional sauce over the meatballs to keep them moist. Cover with a lid and let everything gently simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the pork to reach a safe internal temperature of 160°F.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly, serve your Jerk Meatballs in Coconut Curry Sauce Recipe immediately. Accompany with fluffy white rice and scatter fresh scallions on top for a pop of color and brightness. Dig in and savor every spoonful of this vibrant, comforting Caribbean-inspired dish.

How to Serve Jerk Meatballs in Coconut Curry Sauce Recipe

The image shows a close-up view of several browned meatballs nestled in a thick, creamy yellow sauce. Thin slices of red bell pepper are mixed evenly throughout the sauce, adding bright color contrast. Chopped green onions are scattered on top as fresh garnish. The meatballs have a rough, textured surface with a dark sear on the outside. Everything rests on a white marbled textured background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Lively garnishes can elevate this dish from delicious to truly special. I love finishing the Jerk Meatballs in Coconut Curry Sauce Recipe with a generous sprinkle of sliced scallions for fresh, oniony crunch. For added texture and color, chopped cilantro or a few toasted coconut flakes also make fantastic toppings. Even a wedge of lime on the side adds a zesty contrast that brightens every bite.

Side Dishes

This dish shines beautifully served over a bed of steamed jasmine or basmati rice, which soaks up the creamy curry sauce perfectly. If you want to add more veggies, a side of sautéed greens or lightly pickled cucumbers creates a refreshing balance. For a heartier meal, naan bread or warm roti also go wonderfully alongside to scoop up the sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests with a stunning presentation? Serve the meatballs stacked on a platter, drizzled with extra coconut curry sauce and garnished with vibrant peppers and scallions. Or go family-style, serving everything in a large skillet so everyone can help themselves. For a more casual vibe, try skewering the meatballs and providing small bowls of sauce for dipping – a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at parties!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Jerk Meatballs in Coconut Curry Sauce Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a tasty next-day meal too.

Freezing

This dish freezes very well. Pop cooled meatballs and sauce into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, removing as much air as possible. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Rewarm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Adding a splash of water or coconut milk helps loosen the sauce if it thickens too much in the fridge. Avoid microwaving at high power to keep the meatballs tender and sauce silky.

FAQs

Can I use beef or chicken instead of pork for these meatballs?

Absolutely! Ground beef or chicken can be used as substitutes, though pork keeps the meatballs especially juicy and flavorful. Adjust cooking time accordingly, especially with leaner meats, to avoid dryness.

What if I don’t have Jamaican curry powder?

You can substitute with a mild curry powder blend, but for the authentic Caribbean flavor, Jamaican curry powder is recommended. You might also add some turmeric and allspice to mimic the depth if needed.

Is this dish very spicy?

The heat level depends mainly on the jerk seasoning brand used. Walkerswood is flavorful but moderate in spice. Feel free to adjust the amount of jerk seasoning to tone down or crank up the spiciness to suit your palate.

Can I make the meatballs ahead and cook them later?

Yes! You can shape and brown the meatballs in advance, then refrigerate them for up to a day before simmering in the sauce. This makes meal prep easier and enhances convenience.

What’s a good vegetarian alternative for this recipe?

Try making the sauce as directed and pairing it with vegetarian protein like chickpea falafel balls or firm tofu meatballs seasoned with similar spices. The creamy coconut curry sauce is delicious with many plant-based options!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dish that offers something truly special and full of lively Caribbean flavors, the Jerk Meatballs in Coconut Curry Sauce Recipe is an absolute winner. It combines comfort and excitement in every bite, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend feasts alike. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience how those juicy, spiced meatballs swimming in a rich, creamy sauce can quickly become your new favorite meal to share with friends and family.