Name: Keftedes in Lemon Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 200 grams (7 ounces) ground pork; 400 grams (14 ounces) lean ground beef; 1 large egg; 100 grams (3.5 ounces) crustless bread; 125 ml (½ cup) white wine; 100 grams (½ cup) onion (minced); 4 garlic cloves (minced); ½ teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon dried oregano (plus extra to serve); 2 teaspoons dried parsley (or fresh minced); 1 teaspoon fine sea salt (plus extra for the sauce); ½ teaspoon ground pepper (plus extra for the sauce); 4 tablespoons butter; 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups (500 ml) hot water or stock (vegetable, beef, or chicken); 8-10 tablespoons lemon juice

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The aroma of warm spices fills the kitchen as I sauté garlic, making my mouth water in anticipation. I can hear the gentle sizzle of meatballs frying in olive oil, and suddenly, memories wash over me: those sunny afternoons in my mother’s kitchen, her laughter mixing with the comforting sound of clinking plates.

Keftedes in Lemon Sauce is not just a meal in my house; it’s a cherished tradition. Each time I prepare this dish, it takes me back to family gatherings where stories are shared, hearts are warmed, and everyone gathers around the table, eager for a taste of home. As I drop those golden-brown meatballs into the rich, lemon-infused sauce, I am reminded of the simple joys of cooking: the connecting power of food and the love that flavors every bite.

Table of Contents

Why Keftedes in Lemon Sauce Works for Busy Families

In the hustle and bustle of our busy lives, family meals can sometimes fall by the wayside. This is where Keftedes in Lemon Sauce shines. It is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also brings a familiar warmth that encourages everyone to sit at the table together.

This dish has a special place in my family’s routine. We often cook it on nights when we need a little extra joy to lift our spirits after a long day. The crispy meatballs combined with the zesty lemon sauce create a symphony of flavors that please even the pickiest of eaters. It is a recipe that is adaptable and forgiving, making it ideal for the everyday cook.

Bringing Keftedes in Lemon Sauce to Life

“Every time I stir this pot, it smells just like Sunday at home.”

The kitchen transforms into a haven when you prepare Keftedes in Lemon Sauce. Picture yourself gathering your ingredients, feeling that familiar excitement bubbling inside you. The vibrant colors of the green herbs contrast beautifully with the rich brown of the meatballs, making your kitchen a feast for the senses.

Before diving into the cooking process, let’s gather what you’ll need.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this heartwarming dish, you’ll need the following ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, bringing depth and flavor to the final meal.

2 tablespoons olive oil
200 grams (7 ounces) ground pork
400 grams (14 ounces) lean ground beef
1 large egg
100 grams (3.5 ounces) crustless bread
125 ml (½ cup) white wine
100 grams (½ cup) onion (minced)
4 garlic cloves (minced)
½ teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano (plus extra to serve)
2 teaspoons dried parsley (or fresh minced)
1 teaspoon fine sea salt (plus extra for the sauce)
½ teaspoon ground pepper (plus extra for the sauce)
4 tablespoons butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups (500 ml) hot water or stock (vegetable, beef, or chicken)
8-10 tablespoons lemon juice

When selecting the ingredients, use fresh herbs if you can. They elevate the dish and provide a garden brightness that makes everything taste so much better.

Step-by-Step Directions

Prepare The Meatballs:

In a large bowl, combine the ground pork and beef.
Add the minced onion, garlic, cumin, oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper.
Tear the crustless bread into pieces and add them to the mixture, along with the egg.
Mix everything well until fully combined.
Form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.

Make the Sauce:

Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
Add the meatballs, cooking them until they are golden brown on all sides.
Once done, remove the meatballs and set them aside on a plate.
In the same pan, lower the heat and add the butter.
Once melted, whisk in the flour, stirring it into a creamy paste.
Gradually add the hot water or stock, whisking continuously until smooth.
Pour in the white wine and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
Add the lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
Place the meatballs back into the pan and cover them with the sauce.
Simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Now you have a delicious meal bursting with flavor, perfect for any family dinner.

Serving Keftedes in Lemon Sauce at the Family Table

When it’s time to serve Keftedes in Lemon Sauce, the kitchen fills with laughter and the sounds of family coming together. The steam rises from the pot, carrying the delightful aroma throughout the house. We usually gather around a cozy dining table, where the clinking of forks and plates echoes the joy of each bite.

I love to serve these flavorful meatballs over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside a fresh Greek salad with tomatoes and cucumbers, drizzled with a bit of olive oil. The tangy lemon sauce pours over everything, giving each dish a bright shine. As we gather around, I can see the anticipation on my kids’ faces, and it warms my heart to see them diving into a meal that nourishes not only their bodies but also our family bond.

Making Keftedes in Lemon Sauce Last a Little Longer

Leftovers? Yes, please! Keftedes in Lemon Sauce is perfect for meals later in the week. To store it, let the dish cool completely. Then, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days.

If you want to go the extra mile, you can freeze the meatballs in the sauce. Use a freezer-safe container, and it can last up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through.

Something magical happens when you let these flavors sit overnight. The spices deepen, and the meatballs absorb the tangy deliciousness of the lemon sauce. It’s a comforting meal that really hits the spot.

Quick Tips from My Kitchen

Here are a few tips I’ve learned over the years when preparing Keftedes in Lemon Sauce:

Don’t skip the herbs: Fresh oregano or parsley adds a vibrant touch that makes a big difference.
Watch your heat: When frying the meatballs, keep an eye on the heat to prevent burning. A medium heat gives the perfect golden crust without overcooking the insides.
Substitution magic: If you’re short on an ingredient, don’t fret! You can use other ground meats, like chicken or turkey, instead of beef and pork for a lighter option.
Make it nut-free: If bread is an issue, swap it for gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats. It will still work beautifully.
Lemon zest: For an extra punch of flavor, try adding lemon zest to the sauce. It brightens up the whole dish.

Variations on Keftedes in Lemon Sauce

I love how adaptable Keftedes in Lemon Sauce can be. Over the years, I’ve experimented with different flavors and family twists. Here are a few variations you might enjoy:

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for some heat. It gives that little zing that wakes up your taste buds.
Mediterranean Flair: Incorporate finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives into the meatball mixture for a rich, Mediterranean flavor.
Veggie Twist: Mix in finely grated zucchini or carrot for extra nourishment while keeping the moisture in the meatballs.
Healthy Swap: Instead of white wine, you can use chicken broth for a similar flavor with less acidity.

The possibilities are endless, and it’s all about what fits your family’s taste best. Cooking is always about creativity, after all.

FAQs About Keftedes in Lemon Sauce

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. I often prep it in the morning before the girls wake up, then finish it right before dinner. It keeps the flavor fresh and saves time later.

Can I freeze the meatballs?
Absolutely. Freeze them after cooking, making sure they’re well-coated in sauce. When you’re ready, thaw and reheat for a delicious meal.

What can I serve with Keftedes in Lemon Sauce?
This dish goes wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or a simple green salad. Some crusty bread to mop up the sauce is always a hit too.

Can I use only one type of meat?
Of course! You can make it with just ground beef or even go vegetarian with lentils or chickpeas.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll last a few days, but trust me, they taste even better the next day!

A Final Thought

As my family gathers around the table, enjoying each bite of Keftedes in Lemon Sauce, I realize how fortunate I am to have these moments. Cooking is more than just preparing a meal; it’s a way to express love and create memories.

I hope this recipe finds a place in your heart and home just like it has in mine. Remember, cooking should always be filled with joy, exploration, and connection. Embrace the sizzle, share the stories, and let the warmth of your kitchen light up your family’s life. Happy cooking!