Creamy Coconut Tomato Meatballs

Ingredients

For the meatballs

• 2 packs (2 lbs) ground turkey
• 1/3 cup almond flour
• 1/3 cup psyllium husk
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1 tsp basil
• 1/4 tsp salt
• avocado oil for browning

For the sauce

• 24 oz jar marinara sauce (I used Raos)
• 1 can (13.5 fl oz) full fat coconut milk (if you don’t like coconut/can tolerate dairy you can use heavy cream)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Optional: To thicken the sauce, mix 1–2 teaspoons tapioca starch with an equal amount of cool water to make a slurry. Stir the slurry into the simmering sauce and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly. Add more tapioca slurry if you prefer a thicker consistency. I did this the second time I made it and really enjoyed it over pasta!

Instructions

1. 1. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, almond flour, psyllium husk, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, and salt. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix or the meatballs can become tough.
   2. Let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes to allow the psyllium husk to absorb some moisture and help the mixture firm up.
   3. Roll the mixture into meatballs, about 1½–2 inches in diameter. You should get roughly 20–24 meatballs.
   4. Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat and add a thin layer of avocado oil.
   5. Working in batches if needed, add the meatballs and brown for about 2–3 minutes per side, turning gently until browned on multiple sides. They don’t need to be fully cooked through yet. Remove and set aside.
   6. In the same pan, add the marinara sauce, coconut milk, and dried oregano. Stir well to combine.
   7. Return the meatballs to the sauce and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 15–20 minutes, turning the meatballs once or twice, until they are cooked through and reach 165°F internally.
   8. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm over pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, or with crusty gluten-free bread.