Keftedes In Lemon Sauce
If you’re looking for a dish that brings comfort and joy to your table, let me introduce you to Keftedes In Lemon Sauce. These delightful Greek meatballs are not just soft and juicy; they’re bursting with flavors of garlic and oregano, all lovingly enveloped in a bright lemon sauce. This recipe has become a favorite of mine because it’s so versatile – perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Whether you’re serving them over a bed of rice or alongside a fresh salad, these meatballs will have everyone asking for seconds!
What makes this dish even more special is how easy it is to prepare. You can whip up these tasty meatballs in no time, making them ideal for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these delicious meatballs ready to cook.
- Family-Friendly: Everyone loves meatballs! The pleasant flavors appeal to both kids and adults alike.
- Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer for later use.
- Flavorful Sauce: The lemon sauce adds a refreshing zing that elevates the dish beyond ordinary meatballs.
- Wholesome Ingredients: Made with simple, nutritious components that you can feel good about serving.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these delightful Keftedes In Lemon Sauce, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Each one plays an important role in creating the rich flavors and satisfying texture of the meatballs.
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 teaspoon 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! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:
- Swap the protein: You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
- Add some spice: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat!
- Change up the herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or mint can give your meatballs a unique twist.
- Make it gluten-free: Substitute regular bread with gluten-free bread or use oats as a binder.
How to Make Keftedes In Lemon Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, crustless bread, white grape juice, minced onion, garlic, cumin, oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together gently but thoroughly. It’s important not to overmix; this keeps your meatballs tender.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Once your mixture is well combined, shape it into small balls about the size of a golf ball. This step is fun! Just roll them between your hands until they’re nice and round. Arrange them on a plate as you go.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully add your shaped meatballs to the hot skillet. Brown them on all sides for about 8-10 minutes. This step adds flavor through caramelization and keeps your meatballs moist inside.
Step 4: Make the Lemon Sauce
In another pot, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for about 1 minute until golden brown. Gradually whisk in hot water or stock along with lemon juice. Keep stirring until smooth and thickened – this creates that dreamy sauce that pairs perfectly with your keftedes!
Step 5: Combine Everything
Once your sauce has thickened slightly, place your browned meatballs into it gently. Let them simmer together for about 10 minutes so they absorb all those delicious flavors from the lemon sauce.
Now you’re ready to serve! Enjoy these Keftedes In Lemon Sauce with rice or crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that luscious sauce. Happy cooking!
Pro Tips for Making Keftedes In Lemon Sauce
Making Keftedes In Lemon Sauce is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few helpful tips. Here’s how to ensure your meatballs turn out perfectly every time!
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Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables not only enhance the flavor of your keftedes but also contribute to the overall quality of the dish. Freshness makes a significant difference in taste!
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Don’t overmix the meat: When combining the ground beef and other ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in tough meatballs, while gentle mixing keeps them soft and juicy.
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Chill before cooking: Allowing your formed meatballs to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes helps them hold their shape during cooking. This extra step ensures they stay tender and don’t fall apart.
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Taste test your mixture: Before cooking all your keftedes, sauté a small portion to taste. This way, you can adjust seasoning as needed, ensuring the final dish is flavorful.
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Adjust lemon juice to taste: The amount of lemon juice can vary based on personal preference. Start with less and add more gradually, tasting as you go to find that perfect zesty balance.
How to Serve Keftedes In Lemon Sauce
Serving Keftedes In Lemon Sauce is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors! Here are some wonderful ideas to make your dish truly shine.
Garnishes
- Fresh parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
- Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to add an extra burst of citrus if they desire, enhancing the tangy flavor of the sauce.
- Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes provides an exciting kick that contrasts beautifully with the rich sauce.
Side Dishes
- Greek Salad: A refreshing Greek salad made with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta cheese complements the rich flavors of keftedes perfectly.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs offers a lovely base to soak up the lemon sauce while adding texture to your meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted seasonal vegetables provide a nutritious and visually appealing side that balances out the richness of the meatballs.
- Pita Bread: Warm pita bread is perfect for scooping up keftedes and sauce, making each bite deliciously interactive!
With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re well on your way to creating an unforgettable meal of Keftedes In Lemon Sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy this comforting Greek classic in good company!
Make Ahead and Storage
This Keftedes in Lemon Sauce recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and store it for later, ensuring a delicious meal is always on hand.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the meatballs and sauce to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer them to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- Place cooled meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
- Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- For best results, thaw frozen meatballs overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or stock if necessary.
- Alternatively, you can microwave them on a plate covered with a damp paper towel until hot.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about Keftedes in Lemon Sauce that might help you out!
Can I use other meats for Keftedes in Lemon Sauce?
Absolutely! While this recipe uses ground beef, you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
How do I serve Keftedes in Lemon Sauce?
These delicious meatballs are best served over rice or alongside roasted vegetables. The lemon sauce adds a vibrant touch that complements any side dish beautifully!
What makes Keftedes in Lemon Sauce special?
The combination of juicy meatballs paired with zesty lemon sauce creates an inviting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s comfort food at its finest!
Can I make Keftedes in Lemon Sauce gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free bread crumbs instead of crustless bread, and ensure your flour is also gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
I hope you find joy in making this delightful recipe for Keftedes in Lemon Sauce! With its tender meatballs enveloped in a tangy lemon sauce, it’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Enjoy the warmth of this dish and share it with loved ones. Happy cooking!
Keftedes In Lemon Sauce
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (about 8 meatballs with sauce) 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Greek
Description
If you’re in search of a comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, look no further than Keftedes In Lemon Sauce. These Greek-inspired meatballs are made with tender ground beef, aromatic garlic, and herbs, then coated in a tangy lemon sauce that adds a delightful zing. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe is versatile enough to pair with rice, salads, or crusty bread. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and the promise of satisfying flavors, these hearty meatballs will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, Keftedes In Lemon Sauce delivers warmth and joy to your table.
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 teaspoon 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, mix ground beef, egg, bread, white grape juice, onion, garlic, cumin, oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the meatballs on all sides for 8–10 minutes.
- For the sauce, melt butter in a pot over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in hot water or stock and lemon juice until thickened.
- Add the browned meatballs to the sauce and simmer for 10 minutes to absorb flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 meatballs (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 630mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
