Keftes De Espinca
Keftes De Espinca are savory spinach and ground beef patties, crispy on the outside and tender inside, perfect for a hearty appetizer or main course for meat lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash spinach thoroughly and cook in very little water (1 cup) for 5 minutes.
- Drain well and chop the spinach.
- Mix chopped spinach with ground beef, egg, matzo, salt, and pepper. Let sit for 30 minutes to allow the matzo to absorb moisture.
- Form the mixture into round balls, press between palms to flatten slightly, and fry in oil until golden brown.
- Once all patties are fried, place them in a pan, cover, and simmer on very low heat with chicken stock for 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter option, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef. If you're short on time, pre-washed and chopped spinach can save you some prep work. To enhance the flavor, consider adding minced garlic or onion to the mixture. Keep an eye on the frying temperature to avoid burning the patties; they should sizzle gently in the oil.
Serving Suggestions
These keftes de espinca are delicious served with a dollop of yogurt or tzatziki for added creaminess. Pair them with a fresh salad or serve alongside Mediterranean recipes like Potatoes And Artichokes, Greek Style for a complete meal. They also make great appetizers at gatherings, offering a unique spin on traditional meatballs.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover keftes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken stock to keep them moist, or pop them in a microwave for a quick reheating option. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Keftes De Espinca contains roughly 1448 calories, with 20g protein, 145g carbohydrates, and 89g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (39% of the Daily Value), iron (28% of the Daily Value), and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1055mg per serving (46% 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 keftes before cooking?
Yes, you can freeze the formed patties before frying. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of matzo?
If matzo is unavailable, you can use breadcrumbs or crushed crackers as a substitute. Just ensure they are plain to maintain the flavor profile. Adjust the amount of liquid slightly, as breadcrumbs may absorb more moisture than matzo.
How do I know when the keftes are fully cooked?
The keftes should be golden brown on the outside and firm to the touch. You can check one by cutting it in half; the meat should be fully cooked and no longer pink inside. Simmering them in chicken stock also helps ensure they are cooked through.
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).