Keftehes(Greek Meatballs)
Keftehes are flavorful Greek-style meatballs seasoned with herbs, perfect for serving as an appetizer or main course with a tangy touch and crispy exterior.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground meat and diced onion in a bowl.
- Add bread crumbs, parsley, mint, salt, pepper, eggs, crushed dried herb, and vinegar. Mix thoroughly.
- Dust hands with flour.
- Take small portions of the meat mixture and roll into balls.
- Fry the meatballs in oil until browned on all sides, about 12 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or grated cheese to the meat mixture. If you're out of fresh herbs, dried ones work too, but use half the amount. To keep the meatballs moist, avoid overmixing the ingredients. If you prefer a healthier option, try using ground turkey instead of pork and beef. These meatballs can also be baked instead of fried for a lighter version.
Serving Suggestions
Keftehes are perfect served with a side of tzatziki sauce for dipping. Pair them with a fresh Greek salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. These meatballs also go well with pita bread and can be used as a filling for wraps. For a hearty side, consider serving them alongside Sunday Grits.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist, and cover until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Keftehes(Greek Meatballs) contains roughly 1664 calories, with 10g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 173g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (80% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (42% of the Daily Value), and potassium (36% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1903mg per serving (83% 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 freeze the meatballs before cooking?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatballs. Simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, just fry them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
How can I adjust the spice level?
If you like a bit of heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the meat mixture. For a milder flavor, you could also use sweet Hungarian paprika. Just remember to start with a small amount and adjust to taste as you mix in the spices.
What type of meat works best for Keftehes?
Traditionally, a mix of pork and beef is used for Keftehes, as it provides a nice balance of flavor and fat. However, you can also use lamb for a more authentic Greek taste, or opt for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. The key is to choose a meat that has enough fat to keep the meatballs juicy.
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).