Picture this: a cozy evening with a slight chill in the air, the kind of night that calls for something warm and flavorful.
These Greek meatballs, bursting with spices and herbs, do just the trick—like a little Mediterranean vacation on your plate. And that tzatziki sauce?
It’s like a cool breeze, perfectly balancing the warmth of those savory bites.
Steps
- Grate the red onion directly into a large mixing bowl and add all the remaining meatball ingredients.
- Use your hands to thoroughly combine the mixture until smooth, then refrigerate for an hour to help with shaping.
- Scoop heaped tablespoons of the mixture onto a work surface, shaping them into approximately 32-35 meatballs.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, adding enough olive oil to coat the surface, then lightly dredge each meatball in flour.
- Cook the meatballs in batches for 5-6 minutes, turning to ensure they are browned all over, then remove to a plate and keep warm.
- Alternatively, you can bake the meatballs by spraying them with oil and cooking at 180C/350F for 20 minutes until browned.
- Serve the meatballs as part of a mezze platter with pita bread and tzatziki, or as a main dish with salad.
Ingredients
- 1 red onion, grated
- 500g / 1 lb ground beef (or lamb)
- 200g / 6.5 oz ground pork (or additional beef)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup / 60g panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 6 large mint leaves, finely chopped (preferably spearmint)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Finely chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Tzatziki or Greek yogurt
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of meat for Greek Meatballs?
- Yes, you can substitute lamb for beef or use more beef instead of pork. The recipe is versatile and can accommodate different meat preferences.
- Is it necessary to dust the meatballs with flour before frying?
- Dusting the meatballs with flour helps create a light crust, which adds texture. However, this step is optional, and the meatballs will still be delicious without it.
- Can Greek Meatballs be baked instead of pan-fried?
- Absolutely! You can spray the meatballs with oil and bake them at 180°C/350°F for about 20 minutes until browned. Pan frying is the traditional method, but baking is a great alternative.
- How can I serve Greek Meatballs as part of a meal?
- Serve them with pita bread and tzatziki as a starter, or make a main dish by pairing them with a Greek salad. They are also delicious in wraps with rice pilaf and spinach.
- Can I freeze Greek Meatballs?
- Yes, these meatballs freeze well and remain juicy when reheated. They make for a convenient standby meal, whether at home or while camping.
Tips
- Refrigerate the meatball mixture for about an hour before rolling them into balls. This helps maintain their round shape while cooking and makes them easier to handle.
- Lightly dust the meatballs with flour before pan frying to create a nice, light crust. This step is optional, but it adds a delightful texture to the meatballs.
- Consider serving these juicy meatballs with a side of tzatziki or plain yogurt, as the sauce complements the flavors and enhances the overall dish.
- If you’re planning to bake instead of pan fry, generously spray the meatballs with olive oil and bake at 180°C/350°F for 20 minutes until they are nicely browned. This method is a great alternative for a slightly healthier option.
Equipment
- Large Skillet/Frying Pan – A high-quality non-stick skillet that can evenly fry the meatballs.
- Grater – For grating the red onion directly into the mixing bowl.
- Mixing Bowl – A large bowl for combining the meatball ingredients.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups – For accurately measuring ingredients like flour, olive oil, and spices.
- Cooking Tongs – To easily turn the meatballs while frying them in the skillet.
- Baking Sheet – If opting for the baking method, a durable baking sheet might be necessary.
- Oil Spray Bottle – For spraying olive oil if you choose to bake the meatballs.
