When Greek Meatballs(Keftedes) meet my special Yogurt Dip .. this happens| Christine Cushing

bread crumbs

🥗Healthier: oats

💰Cheaper: crushed crackers

Oats provide a healthier option while crushed crackers can be more economical.

ground lamb

🥗Healthier: ground turkey

💰Cheaper: ground beef

Ground turkey is leaner, and ground beef is often less expensive.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: vegetable oil

Avocado oil offers health benefits, while vegetable oil is a budget-friendly alternative.

Soak stale bread in water.

Chop fresh parsley and mint, removing stems before chopping.

Grate the onion to add moisture and texture.

Add chopped herbs to the mixture, along with a pinch of cumin and salt measured at about 5g per 450g of meat.

Add tomato paste and an egg to bind the mixture together.

Grate a large clove of garlic and blend with the other ingredients before adding the meat to avoid overmixing.

Squeeze the soaked bread and break it up with hands before mixing it into the meat mixture.

Mix the meat mixture gently to avoid toughness, then chill until ready to fry.

Pulse fresh mint leaves with salt, then add 125ml (1/2 cup) of strained yogurt and lemon zest, blending until pale green and bubbly.

Check oil temperature by inserting a wooden spoon; look for bubbles to indicate it's around 350°F.

Drop meatballs into the oil, avoiding crowding the pan, and use tongs instead of hands to avoid burns.

Fry meatballs for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown, checking for an internal temperature of 165°F.

Remove fried meatballs and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens