Description
Classic Greek Meatballs, or Keftedes, are flavorful, juicy, and aromatic with fresh herbs and warm spices. These pan-fried meatballs are perfect as a main dish served with traditional sides like tzatziki sauce, pita bread, and Greek salad.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Ground Beef (Choose a good quality ground beef for a juicy texture.)
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs (Use fresh or dried breadcrumbs to help bind the meatballs.)
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley, chopped (Chop finely for even distribution.)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Mint, chopped (Provides a refreshing note.)
- 1 medium Onion, finely grated (Adds moisture and sweetness.)
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced (Essential for flavor.)
- 1 large Egg (Acts as a binder.)
- 1 teaspoon Salt (Enhances flavors.)
- 1/2 teaspoon Pepper (Freshly cracked for depth.)
- 1/4 teaspoon Cinnamon (Adds warmth and complexity.)
For Cooking
- Olive Oil (For frying.)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Chop the parsley and mint finely, grate the onion, and mince the garlic cloves to prepare all fresh components for mixing.
- Mix Meatball Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, chopped mint, grated onion, and minced garlic. Stir together thoroughly for an even mixture.
- Add Seasonings and Binder: Incorporate the egg, salt, pepper, and cinnamon into the mixture. Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined and evenly distributed.
- Chill Mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes to firm up and develop flavors.
- Shape Meatballs: Using your hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them evenly spaced on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Heat Oil and Cook Meatballs: Warm olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs carefully to the pan in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry Meatballs: Cook the meatballs for 5 to 7 minutes on each side, turning gently to achieve a golden brown crust and ensuring they are cooked through.
- Drain Excess Oil: Once cooked, transfer the meatballs to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
- Serve: Serve the warm Greek meatballs with traditional accompaniments such as tzatziki sauce, warm pita bread, and a fresh Greek salad.
Notes
- Refrigerating the meatball mixture helps them hold their shape better during cooking.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet to ensure even browning.
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor; dried herbs will change the character of the dish.
- Adjust seasoning to taste before chilling the mixture.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
