Opa Authentic Greek Meatballs Keftedes

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Fancy a trip to the Mediterranean without leaving your kitchen? These Greek meatballs , or Keftedes , are your ticket.

Trust me, they're way better than your average frozen dinner! They are so Easy Greek Meals!

Brief Overview

These little beauties come straight from the heart of Greece. They are authentic Greek food and are super easy to make.

We're talking about 1 hour 15 minutes from start to finish. This recipe makes about 15-20 meatballs, perfect for a small gathering or a Yummy Healthy Dinner Recipes .

Main Benefits

These greek meatballs are packed with flavour and lean protein . They are perfect as Mediterranean appetizers or even a main course.

I tell you honestly, is like a Greek comfort food hug on a plate. These Easy Meat Dishes are special because of the fresh herbs and zesty lemon it's a proper party in your mouth!

OPA! Time to get Cooking!

Right then, let’s get down to it. Ever had a craving for something bursting with flavour but don’t want to faff about in the kitchen for hours? I know I have.

That's where this Keftedes recipe comes in, right up my street. Seriously, I have made it countless times, tweaking it to perfection.

These greek meatballs are not just delicious; they're also a fun way to experience authentic Greek food . Plus, who doesn't love a good meatball? Remember that summer holiday where you had the best meatballs by the seaside? That’s the vibe we are after!

What makes these Meatballs so Special

Honestly, it's the combination of fresh herbs, that little tang of lemon, and the juicy, tender meat. And you can’t forget the greek meatball sauce , if you are feeling fancy! It is perfect for a Lean Protein Dinner Recipes dish.

Now, I know what you are thinking: "Another meatball recipe?" But trust me, this one is different. The key is in not overmixing the meat and letting the flavours meld while the mixture chills.

This step is crucial, so don't skip it! And don't be shy with the herbs oregano and mint are your best mates here.

Let's Get This Show on the Road: Ingredients & Equipment for Greek Meatballs !

Right then, let’s get the lowdown on what you need to make these Yummy Healthy Dinner Recipes . I'm talking, the best greek meatballs you've had outside of a proper taverna! No need to be a fancy pants chef, this Keftedes recipe is dead easy.

Honestly, even I can't mess this up, and I've set fire to toast before. Ready to get started on this Lean Protein Dinner Recipes delight? Honestly, you will feel you have just cooked something Authentic Greek food

Main Ingredients for Easy Greek Meals

Here's the shopping list. Trust me, these Dinner Recipes Meatballs will be a banger:

• Meatballs themselves:
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef. 80/20 blend is best, you know, proper flavour.
  • 1/2 cup (50g) panko breadcrumbs. Makes 'em nice and light.
  • 1/4 cup (30g) finely chopped yellow onion.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced. Get the stinky stuff in there.
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten.
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil. Plus extra for cooking.
  • 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh parsley.
  • 2 tablespoons (10g) chopped fresh mint. Makes these Mediterranean appetizers really pop.
  • 1 tablespoon (5g) dried oregano.
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest. Gives it that zing!
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.

Quality ground beef is essential. Look for a bright red colour and a good amount of fat marbling. It makes all the difference! The fresher the beef, the better these Easy Meat Dishes will be

• Sauce (totally optional, but why would you skip it?):
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil.
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken broth.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano.
  • Pinch of salt and pepper.
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water. Thickens it up nicely.

Seasoning Notes: The Secret Sauce!

Oregano is key. Seriously. It is the Greek meatball sauce secret. Don't be shy with it. Mint and lemon are also vital.

They give a proper fresh kick. If you're out of fresh mint, use 1 teaspoon of dried but fresh is always better.

Gear You'll Need

Nothing too fancy. Just basic kitchen stuff to whip up this Greek comfort food :

• Big bowl.
• Baking sheet (if you're baking, mind).
• Frying pan or skillet. For that perfect browning on your greek meatballs .
• Small bowl (for the sauce).
• Measuring cups and spoons. Honestly, you probably have all this already, innit?

That's all there is to it! No faff, no nonsense. Just good, honest grub. Now, let’s get cooking these greek meatballs .

Right then, let’s get cracking with some Greek meatballs ! Forget your standard dinner, these are proper Keftedes . They're easier than a Sunday roast! Trust me, you'll love these easy Greek meals .

Cooking Like a Greek God: Mastering the Keftedes Recipe

Honestly, I've made these more times than I can count. Each time, they taste like sunshine and holidays. These are proper Authentic Greek Food .

We’re talking about simple food that warms your soul. Think of it as Greek comfort food at its finest.

Prep Steps

Essential mise en place : Get everything prepped. Chop your herbs. Mince the garlic. Measure out your spices. Trust me, this makes cooking much faster.

Time saving organization tips: While the mixture chills, wash up. Having a clean workspace makes cooking more enjoyable. You know?

step-by-step Process

1. Mix ground beef, panko breadcrumbs , onion, garlic, egg, olive oil, parsley, mint, oregano, lemon zest , lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Be gentle.
2. Chill that mixture for at least 30 minutes . This is vital for flavour and shape!
3. Roll mixture into 1 inch meatballs.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet. Brown the meatballs on all sides for about 8- 10 minutes . Think golden brown, not burnt. Or, bake them at 375° F ( 190° C) for 15- 20 minutes .
5. Optional sauce time: Whisk chicken broth, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
6. Simmer in sauce! Pour the sauce in with meatballs. Add a cornstarch mix to thicken for 1- 2 minutes . Then, simmer those lovely meatballs for another 5 minutes .
7. Serve those babies hot! Garnish with fresh parsley or mint.

Pro Tips

• Don’t overmix! Overmixing the meat makes tough meatballs. Nobody wants tough meatballs, right?
• Chilling is key. Don't skip the chill time! 30 minutes makes all the difference. Also, lean protein dinner recipes are great!

These little beauties are perfect as Mediterranean appetizers or a main dish. They’re incredibly versatile. Serve them with tzatziki and pita.

Or, chuck them on a plate with chips for the full Greek takeaway experience. It’s a great way to make yummy healthy dinner recipes.

Enjoy your homemade Keftedes recipe ! If I can do it, so can you. This is a great dinner recipes meatballs dish! These also go well with Greek meatball sauce!.

Recipe Notes for Spot-On Greek Meatballs

Right then, let's chat about how to make these greek meatballs perfect . Trust me, these notes will help you nail it. We're making some proper authentic Greek food , innit?

Serving Like a Pro: Plating and Sides

Honestly, presentation matters. Serve these yummy healthy dinner recipes on a bed of rice. Add a dollop of tzatziki. Garnish with fresh mint.

Boom! You've got a masterpiece. For sides, a proper Greek salad is a must. Warm pita bread? Yes, please! These Mediterranean appetizers are killer.

Storage Secrets: Keeping 'Em Fresh

Got leftovers? Lucky you! These greek meatballs keep well. Store them in the fridge for up to 3 days . Make sure they're in an airtight container.

Want to freeze 'em? Go for it! They'll last for up to 2 months in the freezer. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave.

Bangers!

Variations: Mix It Up!

Fancy a twist? Try swapping beef for lamb. It gives a lean protein dinner recipes vibe. Want a veggie option? Use lentils and feta cheese.

Seasonally, think about what's fresh. Zucchini works great in summer. These adaptable dinner recipes meatballs are great.

Nutrition Lowdown: Goodness Inside

These greek meatballs aren't just tasty. They're pretty good for you too. They're packed with protein. Plus, you get some good fats from the olive oil.

Just watch the portion sizes, yeah? They're great easy meat dishes .

These Keftedes recipe is super easy to cook. It will give a taste of proper Greek comfort food . The Greek meatball sauce gives an absolute cracking flavour.

Honestly, making easy Greek meals is a piece of cake. With these tips, you'll be whipping up delicious greek meatballs in no time.

Now get in the kitchen and have a go! You will love it!