Description
Greek Keftedes are traditional Greek meatballs made from ground beef or lamb combined with fresh herbs, spices, and aromatic ingredients, pan-fried to a golden brown perfection. These flavorful and tender meatballs are perfect as an appetizer or main dish, infused with the vibrant tastes of Mediterranean cuisine.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 500 g ground beef or lamb
- 1 small onion, finely grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons milk
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Cooking
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped mint, breadcrumbs, egg, and milk, ensuring all components are evenly incorporated.
- Season the Mixture: Add dried oregano, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper to the meat mixture and gently mix until just combined to avoid overworking the meat.
- Refrigerate: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for 20 minutes to help it firm up and allow the flavors to meld together.
- Shape Meatballs: After chilling, form the mixture into small meatballs approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, ensuring uniform size for even cooking.
- Heat Oil: Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat to prepare for frying the meatballs.
- Fry Meatballs: Fry the meatballs in batches in the hot olive oil, turning occasionally to brown all sides evenly, cooking for about 8 to 10 minutes until they are golden brown and fully cooked through.
- Drain and Serve: Transfer the cooked meatballs to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil, then serve warm as a delicious appetizer or main course.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh herbs like parsley and mint to enhance the flavor.
- Ensure the meatballs are uniform in size to cook evenly.
- Do not overcrowd the pan when frying to maintain the oil’s temperature and achieve a nice crust.
- Ground lamb provides a richer flavor, but ground beef can be used as a leaner alternative.
- These meatballs pair well with tzatziki sauce or a simple tomato sauce.
