Keftedes In Lemon Sauce

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Greek cuisine to your table, then Keftedes In Lemon Sauce is just the recipe you need! These soft and juicy meatballs, bathed in a bright lemony sauce, are perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The combination of garlic and dried oregano makes each bite a delightful experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, this dish will quickly become a family favorite!

Imagine whipping up a hearty meal in no time while filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas. With this recipe, you’ll impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can enjoy these meatballs with rice, pasta, or even on their own!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Just 15 minutes of prep time makes this dish perfect for those busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: These meatballs are soft and flavorful, making them a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare them ahead of time and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of lemon juice and garlic brings out a fresh and zesty taste that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this delicious recipe! Each one plays an important role in creating the delightful flavor of Keftedes In Lemon Sauce.

For the Meatballs

• olive oil
• 200 grams (7 ounce) ground beef
• 400 grams (14 ounce) lean ground beef
• 1 large egg
• 100 grams (3.5 ounces) crustless bread
• 125 ml (½ cup) white grape juice
• 100 grams (½ cup) onion (minced)
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (+ extra to serve with)
• 2 teaspoon 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

Variations

One of the best things about Keftedes In Lemon Sauce is how flexible it can be! Here are some ideas to switch things up based on your preferences:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Mix in finely chopped spinach or grated zucchini into the meatball mixture for added nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce to give it a little heat.
• Fresh herbs: Experiment with different herbs like dill or basil to change up the flavor profile.

How to Make Keftedes In Lemon Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine both types of ground beef with minced onion, garlic, crustless bread soaked in white grape juice, egg, cumin, oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mixing these ingredients thoroughly is crucial as it ensures that every meatball is packed with flavor. Don’t be afraid to get in there with your hands; it’s part of the fun!

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Once your mixture is well combined, form small meatballs—about the size of golf balls—using your hands. This step is essential because uniform size helps them cook evenly. Place them on a plate as you go.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté your meatballs until they’re browned on all sides. This caramelization creates delicious flavors that deepen during cooking. Be gentle while flipping them so they don’t break apart!

Step 4: Make the Lemon Sauce

Remove the cooked meatballs from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, melt butter and whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually add hot water or stock while stirring continuously until thickened. Finally, stir in lemon juice along with some additional salt and pepper. This tangy sauce will elevate your meatballs beautifully!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the meatballs to the skillet and let them simmer in that luscious lemon sauce for about 10 minutes. This allows them to soak up all those amazing flavors. Serve warm over rice or pasta—or simply enjoy them straight from the pan!

Now that you know how easy it is to make Keftedes In Lemon Sauce, I hope you feel inspired to try this delightful dish soon! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Keftedes In Lemon Sauce

Making Keftedes in lemon sauce is a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can ensure your meatballs turn out perfectly every time!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality ground meat make a significant difference in flavor. Fresh parsley and oregano will brighten the dish, while high-quality meat ensures tenderness.

• Don’t Overmix the Meat: When combining your ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in tough meatballs, so be gentle!

• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Everyone’s palate is different; taste your mixture before forming the meatballs. This way, you can adjust the salt or herbs according to your preference.

• Keep Meatballs Uniform: Use a scoop or your hands to form evenly sized meatballs. This ensures they cook at the same rate and remain juicy throughout.

• Sear Before Simmering: Browning the meatballs before adding them to the sauce not only adds great flavor but also helps seal in the juices, keeping them moist.

How to Serve Keftedes In Lemon Sauce

Serving Keftedes in lemon sauce is all about creating a beautiful presentation that enhances their deliciousness. Here are some ideas to elevate this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side for guests who love an extra zing of citrus flavor.

Side Dishes

• Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and feta cheese drizzled with olive oil complements the rich flavors of keftedes wonderfully.
• Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with broth and herbs provides a perfect base that absorbs the delicious lemon sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted seasonal vegetables add nutrition and a sweet contrast to the savory meatballs.
• Pita Bread: Soft pita bread is ideal for scooping up keftedes and sauce, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Enjoy serving your Keftedes in lemon sauce with these thoughtful touches!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Keftedes in Lemon Sauce recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch and enjoy the delicious flavors throughout the week. Here are some practical tips to help you store and enjoy your meatballs.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the meatballs and sauce to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer them to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Place cooled meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer frozen meatballs to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best quality, label the container with the date.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen meatballs in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat gently in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or stock if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Alternatively, microwave them in short intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Keftedes in Lemon Sauce:

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for Keftedes in Lemon Sauce?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative that will still yield deliciously moist meatballs. Just follow the same preparation steps.

What should I serve with Keftedes in Lemon Sauce?

These Greek meatballs pair wonderfully with rice, couscous, or crusty bread. A fresh salad or roasted vegetables makes for a delightful side dish too!

How long does it take to make Keftedes in Lemon Sauce?

The total time is around 45 minutes, including prep and cooking. This makes it an excellent choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Keftedes in Lemon Sauce as much as I do! The combination of tender meatballs bathed in zesty lemon sauce is simply irresistible. Whether you’re preparing this dish for family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, it’s sure to bring smiles around your table. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creation!