Welcome to a delightful journey into Greek cuisine with a recipe that will tickle your taste buds: Keftedakia! These are small, flavorful meatballs that pack a punch of spices and deliciousness. Keftedakia holds a special place in Greek culture, often served at family gatherings, celebrations, and even as street food. It is a dish that brings people together, and it’s easy to see why it’s so beloved. Imagine juicy meatballs combined with herbs like parsley and mint, creating an explosion of flavors in every bite. Whether you’re enjoying a meal with family or impressing friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Ground beef or lamb | 500 grams |
| Breadcrumbs | 1 cup |
| Onion, finely chopped | 1 medium |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 2 |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh mint, chopped | 1 tablespoon |
| Egg | 1 |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Cinnamon | ½ teaspoon |
| Olive oil (for frying) | As needed |
For those who prefer a meatless option, you can use vegetarian ground meat or chickpeas as a substitute for the meat. Additionally, gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used for a gluten-free version of this dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, mint, egg, salt, pepper, and cinnamon. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Shape the Meatballs: With your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball. Place them on a plate as you go.
- Heat the Oil: In a frying pan, heat a few tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough to sizzle when you add the meatballs.
- Cook the Keftedakia: Carefully place the meatballs in the pan. Fry them for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain Excess Oil: Once cooked, transfer the meatballs onto a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
- Serve and Enjoy: Keftedakia are best served warm. You can enjoy them with a side of tzatziki sauce, pita bread, or a fresh Greek salad!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
| Calories | 150 | 7% |
| Protein | 10g | 20% |
| Carbohydrates | 10g | 3% |
| Fats | 8g | 12% |
| Sodium | 200mg | 9% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
Tips and Tricks
- Don’t Overmix: When mixing the ingredients, be careful not to overmix as this can make the meatballs tough.
- Chill Before Cooking: If you have time, chill the formed meatballs in the fridge for about 30 minutes before frying. This helps them hold their shape better.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add other spices like oregano or cumin to give your Keftedakia a unique twist!
- Watch the Heat: Ensure your oil is hot before adding the meatballs to prevent them from absorbing too much oil.
FAQs
What is Keftedakia?
Keftedakia are traditional Greek meatballs made with ground meat and flavored with various herbs and spices.
Can I make Keftedakia ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare Keftedakia in advance and refrigerate them. Just heat them up before serving.
What can I serve with Keftedakia?
Keftedakia pairs well with tzatziki sauce, pita bread, or a refreshing Greek salad.
Can I bake Keftedakia instead of frying?
Absolutely! You can bake Keftedakia at 400°F (200°C) for about 25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
Are Keftedakia gluten-free?
To make Keftedakia gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or substitute with oats or ground nuts.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover Keftedakia in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Can I use other meats besides beef or lamb?
Yes! You can use turkey or chicken as alternatives for a lighter version of Keftedakia.
What herbs are traditional in Keftedakia?
Common herbs used in Keftedakia include parsley and mint, but you can experiment with others like dill or oregano!
Are Keftedakia spicy?
Keftedakia are not typically spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes for heat if you like!
How long does it take to cook Keftedakia?
Cooking Keftedakia usually takes about 10-15 minutes, depending on the size of the meatballs.
Can vegetarians enjoy Keftedakia?
Yes! You can make vegan Keftedakia using vegetables, lentils, or plant-based meat alternatives.
What kind of oil is best for frying?
For frying Keftedakia, use olive oil or vegetable oil for the best flavor and frying performance.
Now that you have our delicious Keftedakia recipe, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and start cooking! Enjoy this tasty dish and share it with your loved ones!
