Keftedes In Lemon Sauce

If you’re looking for a dish that brings warmth and joy to any table, you’ve found it with Keftedes In Lemon Sauce. These succulent Greek meatballs are not just a meal; they are a hug on a plate! Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your home. The zesty lemon sauce adds a bright touch that elevates the flavors and makes every bite unforgettable.

This recipe is special because it combines simple ingredients with the comforting essence of Greek cuisine. Whether you’re serving them over rice, pasta, or alongside a fresh salad, these meatballs will surely impress everyone around the dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these delicious meatballs in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the tender meatballs bathed in zesty lemon sauce.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and simply heat them up when you’re ready to serve.
• Endless Flavor: The combination of garlic, oregano, and lemon creates an incredibly satisfying taste that keeps you coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cooking should be fun and uncomplicated! For this Keftedes In Lemon Sauce recipe, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

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 Lemon 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

One of the best things about Keftedes In Lemon Sauce is its flexibility! Feel free to experiment with these tasty variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
• Add some spice: Incorporate red pepper flakes into the meat mixture for a little kick that’s sure to please spice lovers.
• Try different herbs: Fresh basil or thyme can add unique flavors if you want to change things up from traditional oregano.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute ground chickpeas or lentils for the meat for a delicious plant-based version!

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. Mixing these ingredients well is essential as it helps bind everything together while ensuring each bite is flavorful. Don’t be shy—get your hands in there!

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Using your hands, shape the mixture into small balls about the size of golf balls. This step is super fun and allows you to get creative with sizes if you’d like! Make sure they are uniform so they cook evenly.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your shaped meatballs carefully and cook until they are browned on all sides. This caramelization adds depth to their flavor while keeping them juicy inside.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Sauce

Once your meatballs are cooked through, remove them from the skillet and set aside. In the same pan, melt butter and whisk in flour until golden. Gradually add hot water or stock while stirring continuously until it thickens into a smooth sauce. Stir in lemon juice, adding salt and pepper to taste. This sauce is where all that lemony goodness comes from!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the meatballs back into the skillet with your delicious lemon sauce. Allow them to simmer gently for about 10 minutes so they soak up all those amazing flavors. Trust me; this step is worth it!

And there you have it—your homemade Keftedes In Lemon Sauce is ready to be served! Enjoy this delightful dish with loved ones and relish every bite together!

Pro Tips for Making Keftedes In Lemon Sauce

Making Keftedes In Lemon Sauce is a delightful culinary adventure, and with these tips, you’ll ensure they’re perfectly juicy and flavorful!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, herbs, and quality ground beef will enhance the flavors immensely. This ensures every bite bursts with freshness and authenticity.

• Don’t over-mix the meat: When combining the ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs, while gently mixing keeps them tender and soft.

• Chill before cooking: Letting your formed meatballs chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes helps them hold their shape during cooking. This simple step makes a big difference in maintaining their juiciness!

• Adjust lemon juice to taste: The amount of lemon juice can be tailored to your preference. Start with less, then taste as you go; this way, you can achieve the perfect balance of acidity that suits your palate.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add spices like paprika or cayenne pepper if you enjoy a bit of heat. These additions will give your keftedes an extra layer of flavor!

How to Serve Keftedes In Lemon Sauce

Serving Keftedes In Lemon Sauce is all about presentation and creating a delightful dining experience. Pair these delectable meatballs with lovely accompaniments that enhance their zesty flavor!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley not only adds a pop of color but also freshens up each bite.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges allows guests to squeeze more citrus over their keftedes, elevating the dish’s brightness even further.

Side Dishes

• Greek salad: A refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and feta cheese dressed in olive oil adds a light crunch that complements the richness of the meatballs.
• Tzatziki sauce: This cool yogurt sauce made with cucumber, garlic, and dill pairs beautifully with keftedes. It offers a creamy contrast to the lemon sauce.
• Rice pilaf: Fluffy rice seasoned with herbs serves as a perfect base for soaking up the delicious lemon sauce from the meatballs.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies such as zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots provide a colorful side that brings both nutrition and flavor to your plate.

Now you’re ready to impress your family or friends with this scrumptious Greek delight! Enjoy every moment as you savor these tender keftedes bursting with flavor in every bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Keftedes In Lemon Sauce recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time, making it simple to enjoy delicious, homemade meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the meatballs and sauce to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the meatballs cool completely.
• Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen meatballs to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from the fridge, place meatballs in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.
• For frozen meatballs, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or simmer directly in the sauce if cooking from frozen.
• Heat gently to avoid drying them out.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Keftedes In Lemon Sauce that you might find helpful.

Can I use different types of ground meat for Keftedes In Lemon Sauce?

Absolutely! While this recipe uses ground beef, you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.

What makes Keftedes In Lemon Sauce so special?

The combination of juicy meatballs flavored with garlic and oregano served in a tangy lemon sauce creates an incredible balance of flavors. It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to any meal!

How long does it take to prepare Keftedes In Lemon Sauce?

The prep time for Keftedes In Lemon Sauce is about 15 minutes, while cooking takes approximately 30 minutes. In just under an hour, you’ll have a delightful meal ready to enjoy!

Final Thoughts

I hope you are as excited as I am about making these delightful Keftedes In Lemon Sauce! The tender meatballs combined with zesty lemon sauce create a dish that is not only comforting but also full of flavor. Enjoy sharing this meal with family and friends or savoring it all by yourself. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s truly a winner!