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Greek Keftedes (Traditional Greek Meatballs)

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  • Author: Mia
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Low Lactose

Description

Greek keftedes are flavorful Mediterranean meatballs made with ground meat, fresh herbs, garlic, and spices, then pan-fried until golden and crisp. They are traditionally served with pita, salad, or a cool yogurt-based sauce.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef or lamb
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 small onion, finely grated
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh mint, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for coating)
  • 1/2 cup olive oil (for frying)

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk and let them soak for about 2 minutes.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, add the ground meat, soaked breadcrumbs, grated onion, garlic, egg, parsley, mint, oregano, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Mix everything together until just combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture.
  4. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1½ inches in diameter.
  5. Lightly roll each meatball in flour, shaking off any excess.
  6. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  7. Add the meatballs in batches and fry for 4–5 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
  8. Transfer the cooked keftedes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  9. Serve warm with pita bread, salad, or a yogurt-based dipping sauce.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, chill the meat mixture in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before shaping.
  • You can bake the meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for about 18–20 minutes as a lighter alternative to frying.
  • Fresh mint is traditional and gives the meatballs their classic Greek flavor.
  • Serve with tzatziki sauce, lemon wedges, and warm pita for a complete meal.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Pan Fry
  • Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4 meatballs
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 420 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg

Find it online: https://homecooksimple.com/greek-keftedes-traditional-greek-meatballs/