Greek cuisine is known for its delicious and flavorful dishes, and one of the most beloved recipes is the Greek keftedes. These mouth-watering meatballs are a staple in Greek homes and can also be found in many Greek restaurants around the world. Made with a combination of ground meat, herbs, and spices, these keftedes are a perfect appetizer or main dish. In this article, we will take a closer look at the traditional Greek keftedes recipe and learn how to make them at home.
Add a taste of Greece to your next backyard barbecue with these succulent Greek keftedes, or meatballs. Made with a blend of ground beef, lamb, and flavorful spices, these juicy meatballs are sure to be a hit with everyone at the party. Serve them with some tangy tzatziki sauce and watch them disappear in no time.
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Greek Meatballs (Keftedes)
Main Ingredients: Turkey Mince, Fresh Breadcrumbs, Egg, Red Onion, Feta
If you're a fan of Greek cuisine, you've probably had keftedes before. These traditional Greek meatballs are made with a combination of ground beef and pork, and seasoned with garlic, parsley, and oregano for a burst of Mediterranean flavors. They can be served as an appetizer or as a main dish with some pita bread and a side of Greek salad.
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Greek Meatballs (Keftedes/ Keftethes)
Main Ingredients: Ground Beef, Ground Pork, Medium Red Onion, Garlic
Keftedes, also known as keftethes, are a staple in Greek households. These bite-sized meatballs are typically made with a mixture of ground beef and lamb, and flavored with a blend of herbs and spices. They are often served with a creamy yogurt sauce for dipping, making them a crowd-pleasing appetizer for any occasion.
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Greek Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Water, Garlic, Lemon Juice, Dried Oregano
No Greek meal is complete without some roasted potatoes on the side. These Greek-style potatoes are coated in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs, and then baked until crispy and golden. They make the perfect accompaniment to any of the delicious meatball recipes on this list.
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Easy Greek Meatballs (Keftedes)
Main Ingredients: Ground Beef, Ground Lamb, Bread Crumbs, Onion, Garlic
Short on time? This easy Greek meatball recipe is for you. Made with just a handful of ingredients, these tender and flavorful meatballs come together in no time. Serve them as an appetizer with some tzatziki sauce, or as a main dish with some pita bread and a side of Greek salad.
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Juicy Greek fried meatballs (keftedes)
Main Ingredients: Minced Beef, Minced Pork, Onion, Fine Sea Salt, Pepper
Fried to crispy perfection, these Greek-style meatballs are a delicious twist on the traditional recipe. The outside is crunchy and golden, while the inside remains juicy and flavorful. Serve them as an appetizer with some lemon wedges for squeezing, or as a main dish with some roasted potatoes and a side of Greek salad.
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Crispy Greek Lamb Meatballs (Keftedes Arni)
Main Ingredients: Ground Lamb, Large Red Onion, Garlic, Dried Oregano
For a more decadent twist on the classic Greek meatball, try these crispy lamb meatballs. The combination of ground lamb, feta cheese, and breadcrumbs makes for a rich and flavorful dish. Serve them with some tzatziki sauce for dipping and enjoy the deliciousness.
If you're not a fan of red meat, don't worry, we've got you covered. This Greek chicken recipe is marinated in a blend of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, and then grilled to perfection. Serve it with some pita bread and a side of Greek salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
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Greek Salad Dressing & Greek Salad
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Apple Cider Vinegar, Lemon
No Greek meal is complete without a refreshing Greek salad on the side. This simple yet delicious salad is made with fresh vegetables, feta cheese, and a homemade Greek salad dressing. The dressing is made with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs, and adds the perfect tangy kick to the salad.
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Greek Moussaka
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Butter, Chopped Onion, Minced Garlic, Ground
Moussaka is a traditional Greek casserole dish that is made with layers of eggplant, ground beef, and a creamy béchamel sauce. It's a hearty and filling meal that is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. Serve it with some crusty bread for dipping up all the deliciousness.
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GREEK BEEF STIFADO
Main Ingredients: Chopped Tomatoes, Cinnamon Sticks, Bay Leaves, Dried
This hearty beef stew is a staple in Greek households. Made with tender chunks of beef, caramelized onions, and a rich tomato sauce, this dish is full of robust flavors. It's best served with some crusty bread for soaking up all the delicious sauce.
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Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes – Both Homers Would...
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Bone, Russet Potatoes, Kosher Salt, Freshly
Both Homer Simpson and the ancient Greek poet Homer would agree that this lemon chicken and potato dish is a winner. The chicken is marinated in a zesty mixture of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, and then roasted to perfection with the potatoes. It's a simple yet flavorful meal that is sure to satisfy.
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Lean Greek Meatballs with Tomato Sauce (Keftedes)
Main Ingredients: Lamb, Crusts, Onion, Potato, Lemon Juice, Medium Egg
Looking for a healthier option? These lean Greek meatballs are made with ground turkey and a blend of herbs and spices for a low-fat and tasty dish. Serve them with a homemade tomato sauce and some whole-wheat pita bread for a guilt-free meal.
Put a Greek twist on a classic American dish with these flavorful turkey burgers. Made with a blend of ground turkey, feta cheese, and herbs, these burgers are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Serve them on a bun with some tzatziki sauce and your favorite toppings.
Who says Greek cuisine is all about meat? This refreshing pasta salad is made with a variety of fresh vegetables, feta cheese, and a homemade Greek dressing. It's the perfect side dish for any summer barbecue or potluck.
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Greek Meatballs in Tomato Sauce, Keftedes me Saltsa...
Main Ingredients: Ground Beef, Fresh Breadcrumbs, Dried Oregano, Ground
For a heartier version of the traditional Greek meatball, try these meatballs in tomato sauce. The meatballs are simmered in a rich and flavorful tomato sauce, making them tender and bursting with flavor. Serve them with some crusty bread for dipping up all the delicious sauce.
Add a twist to your typical pasta salad with this Greek-inspired orzo salad. Orzo, a small rice-shaped pasta, is mixed with fresh veggies, feta cheese, and a homemade Greek dressing for a light and tasty side dish. It's perfect for any summer meal or picnic.
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Greek Quesadillas
Main Ingredients: Flour Tortillas, Frozen Chopped Spinach, Sun Dried
Who says quesadillas have to be Mexican? These Greek quesadillas are a fusion of Greek and Mexican flavors, making for a unique and delicious meal. Filled with chicken, feta cheese, and spinach, these quesadillas are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
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One Pan Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice
Main Ingredients: Dried Oregano, Dried Minced Onion, Garlic, Lemon
This one pan Greek lemon chicken and rice dish is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. The chicken is marinated in a tangy lemon and herb mixture, and then baked with rice and vegetables for a complete and easy meal. Plus, there's only one pan to clean up afterwards!
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Zesty Greek chicken
Main Ingredients: Chicken Legs, Chicken Stock, Lemon, Olive Oil, Onion
Spice up your chicken game with this zesty Greek chicken recipe. The chicken is marinated in a blend of Greek spices and lemon juice, and then grilled to perfection. Serve it with some pita bread and a side of Greek salad for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients for Greek Keftedes
Meat:
The star ingredient of Greek keftedes is the meat. Traditional recipes call for a combination of ground beef and ground pork, but you can also use ground lamb for a more authentic flavor. The meat should be lean and not too fatty to avoid a greasy texture.
Breadcrumbs:
Breadcrumbs are essential for binding the meat mixture together and giving the keftedes a soft texture. Use fresh breadcrumbs for best results, or you can make your own by pulsing stale bread in a food processor.
Herbs and Spices:
The key to the delicious flavor of Greek keftedes is a combination of herbs and spices. Oregano, mint, and parsley are commonly used in traditional recipes, along with garlic, onion, and cumin. These ingredients add a Mediterranean touch to the meatballs and make them truly irresistible.
Egg and Milk:
To help bind the meat mixture together, egg and milk are added to the ingredients. The egg acts as a binder, while the milk helps keep the meatballs moist and tender.
Olive Oil:
Greek cuisine is known for its use of olive oil, and the same goes for Greek keftedes. Olive oil is used for frying the meatballs, giving them a crispy and flavorful exterior.
Instructions for Making Greek Keftedes
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large bowl, mix together the ground meat, breadcrumbs, chopped herbs, minced garlic, grated onion, and spices. Use your hands to combine the ingredients thoroughly. Add the egg and milk to the mixture and continue to mix until well combined.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Using your hands, shape the meat mixture into small round meatballs, about the size of a golf ball. You can make them smaller or larger, depending on your preference.
Step 3: Fry the Meatballs
In a large frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Carefully add the meatballs to the pan and fry for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the pan and place them on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil. Serve them hot with your choice of dipping sauce or as part of a larger Greek meal. Enjoy the delicious and authentic flavors of Greek keftedes!
Conclusion
Greek keftedes are a must-try for any food lover. This traditional recipe is easy to make and can be enjoyed as a tasty appetizer or main dish. The combination of ground meat, herbs, and spices creates a burst of flavor in every bite. So why not try making these delicious meatballs at home and bring a taste of Greece to your kitchen?