How To Make GREEK MEATBALLS (Keftedes) - Al's Kitchen

ground beef

🥗Healthier: ground turkey

💰Cheaper: ground pork

Ground turkey is leaner, while ground pork is often less expensive.

breadcrumbs

🥗Healthier: oats

💰Cheaper: crushed crackers

Oats provide fiber, while crushed crackers can be more economical.

chicken broth

🥗Healthier: vegetable broth

💰Cheaper: water with seasoning

Vegetable broth is lower in calories, while water with seasoning is cost-effective.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil has a higher smoke point, while canola oil is typically cheaper.

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground lamb, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, oregano, egg, salt, black pepper, cinnamon, and paprika.

Mix until well combined, then shape the mixture into small meatballs.

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Transfer the browned meatballs to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven until cooked through, about 15-20 minutes.

While the meatballs are baking, prepare the lemon rice.

In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat and add rice, stirring for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted.

Add chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest, then bring to a boil.

Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed, about 15-20 minutes.

Fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve the meatballs over the lemon rice, garnished with additional parsley and lemon wedges.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens