Greek Keftedes

Imagine a plate of golden-brown Greek Keftedes, glistening under a drizzle of zesty lemon sauce. The aroma wafts through the air, mingling with hints of oregano and garlic, promising a flavor explosion that could make even the most stoic taste buds dance. traditional Greek pastry These meatballs are not just a meal; they’re an experience, a delightful journey to the sun-soaked shores of Greece. For more inspiration, check out this air fryer meatballs recipe recipe.

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Now, let’s take a moment to reminisce. Picture a bustling family gathering around a table, laughter filling the room as my grandmother serves her famous Keftedes. I remember the joy on everyone’s faces as they savored each bite—those meatballs were the highlight of every feast! Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a cozy dinner at home, these Greek delights will elevate any meal to legendary status.

When I first attempted this recipe, my friends couldn’t stop raving about how I’d magically transported them to Greece with just one bite!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: perfect side dish.

• Ground Beef: Use high-quality beef for tenderness and flavor; 80/20 beef-to-fat ratio works best.
• Breadcrumbs: Choose fresh or dried breadcrumbs to bind the meatballs together perfectly.
• Fresh Parsley: Opt for bright green parsley; it adds freshness and color to your Keftedes.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic is key; it gives depth and aroma that dried versions simply can’t match.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed juice provides the zingy brightness that elevates the sauce.
• Oregano: Dried oregano brings authentic Greek flavor; choose high-quality herbs for the best results.

For the Sauce:

• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while keeping your sauce flavorful.
• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness and enhances flavors beautifully in both meatballs and sauce.
• Lemon Zest: Make sure to zest fresh lemons for an aromatic punch in your sauce.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare your kitchen because we’re diving into making these Greek Keftedes! Follow these simple steps and get ready for mouthwatering moments.

Mixing the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is evenly combined but be careful not to overmix—this keeps them tender.

Shaping the Meatballs: Wet your hands slightly and scoop out small portions of the mixture. Roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet to keep things tidy.

Searing for Flavor: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in batches without overcrowding. savory meat option Cook until browned on all sides—about 3-4 minutes per side—releasing savory aromas that will have your stomach rumbling.

Making the Lemon Sauce: Once all meatballs are browned and set aside, add chicken broth to deglaze the pan. Scrape up those delicious brown bits stuck at the bottom—this is where flavor lives! Stir in lemon juice and zest for that refreshing kick. For more inspiration, check out this lemon blueberry bread recipe recipe.

Simmering Together: Return meatballs to the skillet with lemon sauce; reduce heat to low and cover. Let simmer for about 10-15 minutes so they soak up all those zesty flavors while remaining juicy inside.

Enjoying your Greek Keftedes is easy! Serve them hot with crusty bread or over rice, letting everyone savor those juicy bites drizzled in tangy lemon goodness.

With these steps laid out clearly, you’re now equipped to create an unforgettable dish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds! wholesome bean dish.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing the ingredients for the keftedes, then shape them while preheating the skillet. Sear them until golden brown before adding the lemon sauce for maximum flavor integration.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out breadcrumbs for oats or add feta cheese for a creamy twist. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can elevate the dish significantly and personalize it to your taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover keftedes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to keep them moist and flavorful.

Cooking these Greek Keftedes reminds me of my grandma’s kitchen filled with laughter and stories. She always said, “If they’re not messy, you’re not doing it right!”

FAQ

What can I serve with Greek Keftedes?

Pair them with rice, pita bread, or a fresh Mediterranean salad for a delightful meal.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey makes for a lighter option while retaining great flavor in the keftedes.

How do I make my keftedes more flavorful?

Add garlic powder, onion powder, or fresh herbs like oregano to enhance their taste significantly.

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Greek Keftedes

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• Author: Liza Hammilton
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Greek Keftedes are a delightful twist on traditional meatballs, bursting with flavor and served in a refreshing lemon sauce. These golden-brown bites are perfect for any occasion, transforming simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. With hints of oregano and garlic, every bite transports you to the sun-kissed shores of Greece. Enjoy them as an appetizer or main dish, and experience the joy they bring to your table.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until combined (avoid overmixing).
2. Wet hands slightly and shape the mixture into 1-inch balls; place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear meatballs in batches until browned on all sides (3-4 minutes per side).
4. Remove meatballs from skillet. Deglaze with chicken broth, scraping up brown bits; stir in lemon juice and zest.
5. Return meatballs to skillet; reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3 Keftedes (approx. 150g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 760mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 90mg