Keftedes In Lemon Sauce
If you’re looking for a dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, then Keftedes In Lemon Sauce is just what you need! These delightful Greek meatballs are not only soft and juicy but also come alive with a bright, zesty lemon sauce that dances on your taste buds. This recipe has been a cherished favorite in my home for years, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. It’s that comforting meal that everyone loves, making it an absolute must-try!
What I love most about these meatballs is how simple they are to make while still being packed with flavor. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen too!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will savor these tender meatballs swimming in zesty lemon sauce!
- Make-ahead convenience: You can easily prepare these meatballs ahead of time and reheat them when you’re ready to eat.
- Flavor explosion: The combination of garlic and oregano gives each bite a rich Mediterranean flavor that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create these mouthwatering Keftedes In Lemon Sauce. You might already have many of these items in your pantry!
For the Meatballs
- olive oil
- 200 grams (7 ounce) ground beef
- 400 grams (14 ounce) lean ground beef
- 1 large egg
- 100 grams (3.5 ounces) crustless bread
- 125 ml (½ cup) white grape juice
- 100 grams (½ cup) onion (minced)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (+ extra to serve with)
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley (or fresh minced)
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt (+ extra for the sauce)
- ½ teaspoon ground pepper (+ extra for the sauce)
For the Sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (500 ml) hot water or stock (vegetable, beef, or chicken stock)
- 8-10 tablespoons lemon juice
Variations
This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Whether you want to mix things up or cater to specific tastes, here are some fun variations to consider:
- Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
- Add veggies: Incorporate finely chopped spinach or bell peppers into the meat mixture for added nutrition.
- Spice it up: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat!
- Herb twist: Experiment with different herbs like fresh mint or basil for a unique flavor profile.
How to Make Keftedes In Lemon Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine both types of ground beef with minced onion, garlic, egg, crustless bread soaked in white grape juice, and spices. This blend creates juicy meatballs full of flavor. Don’t be afraid to get your hands in there; mixing it well ensures every bite is packed with goodness!
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
With wet hands, form the mixture into small balls—about the size of golf balls. This size helps them cook evenly and stay moist. Place them on a plate as you go; they’ll soon be swimming in that wonderful lemon sauce!
Step 3: Sear the Meatballs
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sear the meatballs until browned on all sides. This step locks in their moisture and adds a delicious crust. Remember not to overcrowd the pan; working in batches allows each meatball to get perfectly golden.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
After searing, set the meatballs aside and prepare your sauce in the same skillet. Melt butter over medium heat, stir in flour to create a roux, then gradually whisk in hot water or stock along with lemon juice. This creates a silky sauce that complements our keftedes beautifully.
Step 5: Simmer Together
Return the meatballs to the skillet and let them simmer gently in that luscious lemon sauce for about 20 minutes. Not only does this finish cooking them through, but it also infuses them with tangy flavor.
Now you’re ready to enjoy your Keftedes In Lemon Sauce! Serve them over rice or with crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that incredible sauce. Enjoy!
Pro Tips for Making Keftedes In Lemon Sauce
Making the perfect Keftedes in Lemon Sauce is easier than you think—just follow these handy tips!
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Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, herbs, and quality ground beef will significantly enhance the flavor of your keftedes, making them more aromatic and delicious.
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Don’t skip the chilling step: After forming your meatballs, refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes. This helps maintain their shape during cooking and enhances their texture.
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Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different, so taste your mixture before cooking. Feel free to tweak the salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preferences.
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Cook in batches: If you’re making a large batch, cook your meatballs in smaller batches. This ensures they brown nicely and don’t steam, giving you that delightful crispy exterior.
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Add a splash of lemon juice before serving: A little extra lemon juice just before serving brightens up the flavors and gives the sauce a fresh twist.
How to Serve Keftedes In Lemon Sauce
Presenting your Keftedes in Lemon Sauce can elevate the dining experience! Here are some ideas to make it look as scrumptious as it tastes.
Garnishes
- Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the dish beautifully.
- Lemon wedges: Placing lemon wedges on the side allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their meatballs for an extra zing.
Side Dishes
- Greek Salad: This refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and feta (or a dairy-free alternative) offers a crunchy contrast to the soft keftedes.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with herbs and spices serves as a perfect base to soak up all that delicious lemon sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add color and nutrients while balancing the richness of the meatballs.
- Pita Bread: Soft pita bread is great for scooping up keftedes and sauce, making every bite enjoyable!
Now you’re all set to impress your family or friends with this delightful Greek dish! Enjoy every moment spent savoring these flavorful meatballs!
Make Ahead and Storage
This Keftedes In Lemon Sauce recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious Greek flavors throughout the week. Whether you’re planning for lunches or family dinners, these meatballs are easy to store and reheat beautifully.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the keftedes to cool completely before storing.
- Place the meatballs in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Keep the lemon sauce separate if possible to maintain texture.
Freezing
- After cooking, let the keftedes cool completely.
- Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
- Transfer frozen meatballs to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- For best results, thaw frozen keftedes overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Heat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or lemon juice to keep them moist.
- Alternatively, you can microwave them in short intervals until warmed through.
FAQs
Here are some common questions you might have about making Keftedes In Lemon Sauce.
Can I use different types of ground meat for Keftedes In Lemon Sauce?
Yes! While this recipe uses ground beef, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or lamb according to your preference. Just be mindful of cooking times as they may vary slightly.
What can I serve with Keftedes In Lemon Sauce?
These delicious meatballs pair wonderfully with rice, couscous, or a fresh Greek salad. You could also serve them with pita bread and tzatziki for a delightful meal.
How do I ensure my keftedes are tender?
To achieve tender Keftedes In Lemon Sauce, be careful not to overmix the meat mixture. Mixing just until combined helps maintain their soft texture when cooked.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making these flavorful Keftedes In Lemon Sauce as much as I do! This dish brings together comforting ingredients and vibrant flavors that will surely impress your family and friends. Don’t hesitate to make a double batch – they’re perfect for sharing! Happy cooking!
Keftedes In Lemon Sauce
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Greek
Description
If you’re in search of a heartwarming dish that also delights the palate, Keftedes In Lemon Sauce is your answer! These Greek-inspired meatballs are tender and juicy, infused with vibrant flavors from garlic and oregano, and bathed in a zesty lemon sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this recipe has been a cherished favorite for its simplicity and rich taste. With only 15 minutes of prep time and the ability to make-ahead, these meatballs will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy them over rice or with crusty bread to savor every drop of that delicious sauce.
Ingredients
- olive oil
- 200 grams (7 ounce) ground beef
- 400 grams (14 ounce) lean ground beef
- 1 large egg
- 100 grams (3.5 ounces) crustless bread
- 125 ml (½ cup) white grape juice
- 100 grams (½ cup) onion (minced)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (+ extra to serve with)
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley (or fresh minced)
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt (+ extra for the sauce)
- ½ teaspoon ground pepper (+ extra for the sauce)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (500 ml) hot water or stock (vegetable, beef, or chicken stock)
- 8–10 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, minced onion, garlic, egg, soaked bread in grape juice, and spices until well mixed.
- Form mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place on a plate.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sear meatballs until browned on all sides.
- Set meatballs aside; in the same skillet, melt butter, whisk in flour to create a roux, then gradually add hot water or stock and lemon juice to form the sauce.
- Return meatballs to the skillet and let simmer for approximately 20 minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 meatballs (about 150g)
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
