Keftedes In Lemon Sauce

If you’re looking for a dish that brings warmth and comfort to your table, you’ve come to the right place! These Keftedes In Lemon Sauce are not just your average meatballs; they are soft, juicy, and bursting with flavor. This recipe has been a cherished favorite in my home for years. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick yet satisfying or for family gatherings where comfort food is key.

The tangy lemon sauce adds a delightful twist that elevates these Greek meatballs to something truly special. Trust me, once you try them, they will become a staple in your dinner rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this dish is perfect for those evenings when you’re short on time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore these flavorful meatballs, making it a hit at the dinner table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and simply reheat them in the delicious lemon sauce when ready to serve.
• Versatile Flavor: The combination of garlic and dried oregano creates a mouthwatering taste that pairs wonderfully with any side dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Keftedes In Lemon Sauce is simple with these wholesome ingredients! You likely have many of them already in your pantry. Let’s gather what you’ll need for this delightful dish:

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

The great thing about Keftedes In Lemon Sauce is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative based on your preferences or what’s available in your kitchen.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add some heat: Mix in some red pepper flakes if you like a bit of spice in your life!
• Herb it up: Experiment with different fresh herbs like basil or thyme to change up the flavor profile.
• Go vegetarian: Replace meat with lentils or chickpeas for a hearty plant-based version.

How to Make Keftedes In Lemon Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

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

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Once everything is combined into a sticky mixture, shape it into small balls about the size of a golf ball. This step is crucial because uniform sizes will help them cook evenly. Place them on a plate as you go; it keeps things organized and makes frying easier.

Step 3: Brown the Meatballs

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and let it warm up before carefully adding your shaped meatballs. Brown them on all sides—this step not only adds beautiful color but also develops rich flavors through caramelization.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Sauce

Once browned, remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside. In that same skillet, melt butter over medium heat before whisking in flour until smooth. Gradually add hot water or stock while stirring continuously until thickened. Finally, stir in lemon juice along with any additional salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the meatballs to the skillet and allow them to simmer gently in that luscious lemon sauce for about 15 minutes. This step allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

And there you have it! A comforting dish ready to be enjoyed with loved ones. Serve these Keftedes In Lemon Sauce with rice or a fresh salad for an unforgettable meal!

Pro Tips for Making Keftedes In Lemon Sauce

Making Keftedes In Lemon Sauce is a rewarding experience, and with these helpful tips, your meatballs will shine even brighter!

• Choose the right meat: Using a combination of ground beef gives you the perfect balance of flavor and moisture. Lean beef keeps it healthy while the slightly fattier ground beef adds richness.
• Soak the bread: Soaking crustless bread in white grape juice not only helps bind the meatballs but also adds a subtle sweetness that complements the lemon sauce beautifully.
• Don’t skip the herbs: Fresh or dried oregano and parsley infuse every bite with essential Greek flavors. The herbs bring freshness that brightens up the dish!
• Get your hands dirty: Mixing the ingredients with your hands helps to evenly combine everything without overworking the meat, leading to tender and juicy meatballs.
• Adjust lemon to taste: Depending on how tart you like your lemon sauce, feel free to adjust the amount of lemon juice. A little zest can go a long way!

How to Serve Keftedes In Lemon Sauce

Serving Keftedes In Lemon Sauce can be as simple or as elegant as you want! Here are some ideas to make it visually appealing and delicious.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: Sprinkling freshly chopped parsley on top adds a vibrant color and enhances the dish’s aromatic profile.
• Lemon wedges: Placing lemon wedges on the side allows guests to add extra zest according to their taste preference.

Side Dishes

• Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese drizzled with olive oil complements the savory flavors of the keftedes perfectly.
• Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked in vegetable or chicken stock seasoned with herbs makes for a hearty base that soaks up all that delicious lemon sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted with olive oil and herbs provide a colorful addition that balances out the rich meatballs.
• Pita Bread: Serve warm pita bread on the side for scooping up those succulent keftedes and sauce—it’s a fun way to enjoy every last bite!

Now you’re all set to make these delightful Greek meatballs in lemon sauce! Enjoy them with family and friends for a meal that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Keftedes In Lemon Sauce recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious Greek meatballs throughout the week. Preparing these meatballs in advance not only saves time but also enhances the flavors as they sit in that delightful lemon sauce.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the meatballs to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Once cooled, arrange the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them on medium power until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Keftedes In Lemon Sauce that might help clarify any doubts you have!

Can I use other types of meat for Keftedes In Lemon Sauce?

Absolutely! While this recipe uses ground beef, you can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Just make sure to season them well as different meats may require slight adjustments in spices.

How can I enhance the flavor of Keftedes In Lemon Sauce?

To boost the flavor of your Keftedes In Lemon Sauce, consider adding freshly chopped herbs like mint or dill into the meat mixture. You can also increase the garlic or lemon juice for a more robust taste!

How long will Keftedes In Lemon Sauce last in the fridge?

Keftedes In Lemon Sauce can be stored safely in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Enjoy them cold or reheat for a quick meal!

Can I make Keftedes In Lemon Sauce ahead of time?

Yes! This dish is excellent for meal prep. You can prepare and cook the meatballs ahead of time, then store them in their sauce. The flavors will deepen as they sit!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Keftedes In Lemon Sauce recipe brings joy to your dinner table! These tender and flavorful meatballs are not only comforting but also a wonderful way to share Greek culinary traditions with your loved ones. Enjoy cooking and savor every bite—I’d love to hear how yours turn out!