Keftedes

Keftedes

Appetizer

35 min

6 servings

This recipe uses:

Yaya’s Extra Virgin Olive Oil
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Yaya’s Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (450 grams) ground beef or lamb (or a combination of both)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • Olive oil for frying

About the dish:

Keftedes, also known as Greek meatballs, are a popular dish in Greek cuisine. They are typically made with ground meat, herbs, and spices, and can be served as an appetizer, part of a meze platter, or as a main course. Here's a recipe to make traditional Greek Keftedes:

Recipe:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, mint (if using), dried oregano, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Mix the ingredients together using your hands until everything is well combined. Ensure that the spices and herbs are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
  3. Add the lightly beaten egg to the mixture and continue mixing until the egg is fully incorporated. The mixture should hold together when shaped into meatballs.
  4. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about the size of a golf ball, and place them on a baking sheet or plate.
  5. Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat and add enough olive oil to cover the bottom of the pan.
  6. Working in batches, carefully place the meatballs in the hot oil, leaving some space between them. Fry the meatballs for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are browned and cooked through.
  7. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked meatballs to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  8. Repeat the frying process with the remaining meatballs, adding more oil if necessary.
  9. Serve the Keftedes hot as an appetizer or main course. They can be accompanied by tzatziki sauce, a squeeze of lemon juice, or served with pita bread and a Greek salad.
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