Keftedes In Lemon Sauce

The softest and juiciest Greek meatballs, Keftedes In Lemon Sauce, are a delightful addition to any meal. Bursting with flavor from garlic and dried oregano, these meatballs are perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The rich lemon sauce adds a unique twist that elevates this dish, making it a standout choice for any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Delight: The combination of pork and beef creates a savory profile that pairs wonderfully with the zesty lemon sauce.
• Easy to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Versatile Dish: Whether served as an appetizer or main course, these meatballs fit perfectly into various dining settings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the taste of these tender meatballs, making it a hit at the dinner table.
• Make Ahead Option: These meatballs can be made in advance and stored, making meal planning a breeze.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing Keftedes In Lemon Sauce even smoother. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Frying pan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
• Frying pan: Provides even heat distribution for cooking the meatballs perfectly to achieve that golden-brown crust.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

• olive oil
• 200 grams (7 ounce) ground pork
• 400 grams (14 ounce) lean ground beef
• 1 large egg
• 100 grams (3.5 ounces) crustless bread
• 125 ml (½ cup) white wine
• 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

How to Make Keftedes In Lemon Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the ground pork and lean ground beef. Add the minced onion, garlic, egg, crustless bread, white wine, cumin, oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Step 2: Form Meatballs

Using your hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs about 1 inch in diameter. This should yield around 15 meatballs.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

In a frying pan over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, carefully place the meatballs in the pan. Cook until they are browned on all sides. Remove them from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Sauce

In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for about 2 minutes until golden brown. Gradually whisk in hot water or stock until smooth. Add lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Combine Meatballs with Sauce

Return the browned meatballs to the pan with lemon sauce. Simmer gently for about 15 minutes until cooked through and flavors meld together.

Now you have delicious Keftedes In Lemon Sauce ready to serve! Enjoy them warm with extra lemon wedges or over rice for a complete meal.

How to Serve Keftedes In Lemon Sauce

Keftedes in lemon sauce are versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

With Rice

• Fluffy white rice pairs beautifully with the tangy lemon sauce, soaking up all the flavors from the meatballs.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve keftedes on a fresh salad mix for a light and healthy option. The acidity of the lemon dressing complements the meatballs well.

With Pita Bread

• Warm pita bread is perfect for scooping up the keftedes. This adds a wonderful texture and flavor to each bite.

Accompanied by Tzatziki

• A side of tzatziki sauce adds a creamy and refreshing contrast to the warm meatballs, enhancing their taste.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Pair your keftedes with roasted seasonal vegetables for a hearty and nutritious meal.

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How to Perfect Keftedes In Lemon Sauce

Achieving the perfect keftedes in lemon sauce requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices will greatly enhance the flavor of your keftedes, making them more aromatic and tasty.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining the meat mixture, avoid overmixing. This keeps your meatballs tender and juicy.
• Sear Before Baking: Lightly sear your meatballs in olive oil before baking them for added depth of flavor and a nice golden crust.
• Balance the Lemon Juice: Adjust the amount of lemon juice based on your taste preference. Too much acidity can overpower the dish.

Best Side Dishes for Keftedes In Lemon Sauce

Keftedes in lemon sauce can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Consider serving these alongside your meal:

1. Greek Salad: A mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, olives, and feta cheese drizzled with olive oil offers freshness that balances the richness of the meatballs.
2. Lemon Couscous: Fluffy couscous flavored with lemon zest adds an interesting texture and complements the citrus notes in the sauce.
3. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus brings a smoky flavor that pairs well with keftedes, providing a crunchy contrast.
4. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make a hearty side that works well with any saucy dish.
5. Hummus Platter: A selection of hummus varieties served with veggies or pita chips makes for an appealing appetizer before diving into the main course.
6. Fried Zucchini Fritters: These crispy bites add a delightful crunch to your plate while harmonizing with the flavors of Greek cuisine.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Keftedes In Lemon Sauce can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using stale bread: Fresh crustless bread is essential for moist meatballs. Avoid old bread that can lead to dry Keftedes.
• Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough spices can make your meatballs bland. Be generous with garlic and oregano to enhance flavor.
• Overcrowding the pan: Cooking too many meatballs at once can cause steaming instead of browning. Work in batches for that perfect crisp.
• Not resting the mixture: Allowing the meat mixture to rest helps flavors meld and improves texture. Don’t rush this step!
• Ignoring the sauce: The lemon sauce is crucial for flavor; skipping it means missing out on the dish’s essence. Make sure to prepare it well.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for up to 3 days.

Freezing Keftedes In Lemon Sauce

• Place cooled meatballs in a freezer-safe container.
• They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Keftedes In Lemon Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or stock if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Keftedes In Lemon Sauce.

What meat can I use for Keftedes In Lemon Sauce?

You can use pork, beef, or a mix of both. This combination provides great flavor and texture.

Can I make Keftedes In Lemon Sauce gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute crustless bread with gluten-free bread or breadcrumbs to enjoy this dish without gluten.

How do I serve Keftedes In Lemon Sauce?

Serve them with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad. They also pair well with crusty bread for dipping into the sauce.

Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and refrigerate or freeze them before cooking, making mealtime quicker.

Final Thoughts

Keftedes In Lemon Sauce is not just a meal; it’s a taste of Greece that brings comfort and joy to your table. This recipe is versatile—feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or spices. Enjoy these delicious meatballs as part of a family dinner or serve them at gatherings with friends!