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Savory venison harissa meatballs simmered in a rich, homemade tomato sauce, infused with the freshness of mint and the earthy crunch of pepitas. This unique combination creates a flavorful, hearty dish that’s both comforting and elevated—a perfect balance of robust and refreshing flavors.

I’d never tried harissa paste before, so I decided to get creative and make my own to pair with venison meatballs. Harissa is a spicy, flavorful paste often used in North African and Middle Eastern cuisine, and it brought such a fun twist to this dish. The only catch? Making your own paste, sauce, and meatballs from scratch takes some time! To keep things simple, I recommend grabbing a good-quality harissa paste and tomato sauce (look for options that are additive-free and sugar-free) to save time without sacrificing flavor.

Benefits of Venison Meatballs

  • High in Protein
    • Venison is an excellent source of lean protein, which supports muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
    • Protein also helps keep you feeling full longer, aiding in appetite control and weight management.
  • Rich in Nutrients
    • Iron: Supports healthy red blood cell production and oxygen transport.
    • Zinc: Boosts the immune system and promotes wound healing.
    • Vitamin B12: Crucial for energy production and brain health.
  • Anti Inflammatory Properties
    • Harissa, made from chilies, garlic, and spices, contains capsaicin, which has anti-inflammatory properties and may help improve circulation and reduce pain.
  • Sustainable and Ethical
    • Venison is often sourced from wild or free-range deer, making it a more environmentally friendly and ethical choice compared to industrially farmed meats

Where to Source

  • I source my venison from Maui Nui Venison. Look for brands that are ethical in their practices! Contact local butchers, ask them where they source. Get to know your farmers and hunters, it add an extra layer of connection to the food 🙂
  • Harissa paste: you can make this at home or buy from the store, try and avoid added sugars and gums!
Savory Harissa Venison Meatballs simmered in a homemade tomato sauce

Venison Harissa Meatballs

Savory venison harissa meatballs simmered in a rich, homemade tomato sauce, infused with the freshness of mint and the earthy crunch of pepitas.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Main Course
Cuisine African, Mediterranean
Servings 3

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground venison
  • 1/3 cup gf flour
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley finely chopped
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp chili flakes
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 red onion diced
  • 2 tbsp harissa paste
  • 2 tbsp fresh mint finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp ground corriander
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Garnish

  • fresh mint
  • pepitas
  • tomato sauce homemade, store bought (sugar free, additive free)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C)

Prepare the Onions

  • Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
  • Set aside to cool slightly.

Mix the Meatballs

  • In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, gf flour, egg, harissa paste, sautéed onions spices and chopped mint and parsley.
  • Mix gently until just combined
  • Roll the mixture into 1.5-inch balls and set them aside on a plate

Cook the Meatballs (Stovetop-to-Oven)

  • Heat 1-2 tbsp olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the meatballs in batches (if necessary) and cook for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides but not fully cooked through.
  • Once browned, transfer the skillet with the meatballs to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
  • I cooked them in my our place skillet. Any oven safe skillet is great!
  • Remove the meatballs from the oven and gently pour the sauce over them in the skillet. Toss to coat the meatballs evenly in the sauce.

Final Touches

  • Transfer the meatballs to a serving dish and garnish with fresh mint leaves and pepitas.
  • Serve hot with warm pita, couscous, rice, or roasted vegetables, and a dollop of yogurt desired.
Keyword Harissa, Meatballs

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