"Dolmathes Kima Me Avgolemono" - Meat Balls With Egg Lemon Sauce
Delicious meatballs simmered in a flavorful broth, finished with a tangy egg lemon sauce, perfect for hearty meals and Mediterranean cuisine enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, chopped onion, minced mint, parsley, rice, salt, and pepper; add 1/4 cup of beef stock and mix well.
- Form the mixture into walnut-sized meatballs.
- Bring remaining beef stock and water to a boil in a pot.
- Drop the meatballs into the boiling stock and water.
- Simmer uncovered for 45 minutes.
- Beat egg yolks in a bowl and add lemon juice.
- Gradually add some hot stock to the egg yolks while beating continuously.
- Stir the egg yolk mixture back into the remaining hot stock.
- Cover and let stand off the heat for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating grated lemon zest into the meatball mixture. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Fresh herbs can elevate the dish; try using fresh parsley or dill in place of dried mint. If you're short on time, pre-made meatballs can be used, but ensure they are cooked thoroughly in the broth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the dolmathes kima with a side of lemon wedges for an extra citrusy kick. It pairs beautifully with Spinach Stew With Beef or a light Greek salad for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious egg lemon sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the meatballs in a saucepan with a bit of broth or water and warm over low heat until heated through. Avoid boiling, as this can toughen the meatballs. Freezing is also an option; freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Dolmathes Kima Me Avgolemono" - Meat Balls With Egg Lemon Sauce contains roughly 828 calories, with 39g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 62g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (77% of the Daily Value), iron (77% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2839mg per serving (123% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them for up to a day before cooking. This allows the flavors to meld. Just ensure they are fully cooked before serving. If you're looking for a quicker meal, you can also freeze the uncooked meatballs and cook them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I substitute for beef stock?
If you don't have beef stock, you can use chicken stock or vegetable stock as a substitute. However, keep in mind that the flavor will differ slightly. For a richer taste, consider making your own stock or using a bouillon cube dissolved in water as an alternative.
How can I make the egg lemon sauce thicker?
To achieve a thicker egg lemon sauce, you can whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water) into the hot stock before adding the egg mixture. This will result in a creamier texture without compromising the flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).