Greek Meatballs
Greek meatballs are a delightful fusion of flavors, inspired by traditional Keftedes and Sheftalias. These meatballs are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering. The combination of herbs, spices, and the rich taste of meat makes them an irresistible treat. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe, step by step.
Remix of Side Dishes
Greek meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Here are some suggestions:
- Mediterranean-style salad. Fresh and vibrant, a Mediterranean salad pairs perfectly with these meatballs.
- Pitas. Soft, warm pitas make an excellent accompaniment.
- Lemon juice. A squeeze of lemon juice over the meatballs adds a refreshing tang.
- Greek yogurt. Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast.
Greek Salad the Perfect Side Dish
A Greek salad is an ideal side dish for Greek meatballs. It’s fresh, crunchy, and full of flavors that complement the meatballs perfectly. Here’s how to make a simple yet delicious Greek salad.
Greek Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups chopped tomatoes
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- ½ cup Kalamata olives
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to make Greek Salad
- In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, green bell pepper, crumbled feta cheese and Kalamata olives.
- Drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt, pepper.
- Toss everything gently to combine.
This salad not only adds a burst of color to your plate but also balances the richness of the meatballs with its fresh and tangy flavors.
Tips for the Perfect Meatballs
Here are a few tips to ensure your Greek meatballs turn out perfect every time.
- Use fresh herbs. Fresh oregano and parsley provide a more vibrant flavor than dried herbs.
- Don’t overmix. Mix the ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can make the meatballs tough.
- Test a small meatball first. Cook a small meatball to taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before cooking the entire batch.
- Keep your hands wet. Wetting your hands makes it easier to shape the meatballs and prevents sticking.
- Cook over medium to high heat. This ensures the meatballs get a nice crust without burning.
Remix and Customizations
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste. Here are some ideas.
- Add cheese. Mix in some grated cheese, like Parmesan or Pecorino, for extra flavor.
- Spice it up. Add some chili flakes or finely chopped jalapeños if you like a bit of heat.
- Herb mix. Experiment with different herbs such as mint or dill for a unique twist.
- Different meats. Try a combination of meats, such as beef and lamb, for a richer flavor profile.
Greek meatballs are a delightful dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean to your table. They are easy to make, delicious, and versatile. Paired with a fresh Greek salad and served with pitas, lemon juice, or Greek yogurt, they make for a satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just for yourself, these meatballs are sure to impress. Enjoy the process of making them and savor every bite of this flavorful fusion dish.
Greek Meatballs
Ingredients
- 2.2 lbs of mince meat (1kg) beef, lamb, or pork
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (60g)
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic crushed and chopped
- 2 tablespoons oregano and/or parsley
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the mince, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, oregano/parsley, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix very well until combined, using wet hands for best results. Add the egg and mix again thoroughly.
- With wet hands, form the mixture into small balls or round sausage shapes. Place them on a plate or tray.
- Heat and oil a BBQ plate or frying pan over medium to high heat. Cook the meatballs, turning every 3-4 minutes until they are slightly beyond golden in color.
- Serve
- Serve with Mediterranean-style salad or pitas. They pair well with lemon juice or Greek yogurt.