Greek Meatballs with Tzatziki and Toasted Pita
 
Prep time
Cook time
Total time
 
A traditional Greek recipe for juicy meatballs served over toasted pita with tzatziki!
Author:
Recipe type: Main Course or Appetizer
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 4-5
Ingredients
  • 1 lb. ground beef (or a combination of beef & lamb, or beef & pork)
  • 2 slices good quality day-old bread, crusts removed
  • 2-3 TBSP. red wine vinegar
  • ½ onion, grated
  • 2 med. garlic cloves
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1 TBSP. extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tsp. sea salt
  • ¼ tsp. freshly ground pepper
  • ½ tsp. dried Greek oregano
  • ½ tsp. dried spearmint
  • 3 TBSP. fresh parsley, minced
  • ½ cup flour
  • --- olive oil for the pan
  • --- red onions for serving, sliced very thinly (optional)
  • --- parsley, minced for serving (optional)
Instructions
  1. Remove the ground beef from the refrigerator at least 15 minutes before you start cooking. In a large bowl, soak the slices of bread in the red wine vinegar. Let them sit for 5 minutes so they can absorb the vinegar. Squeeze them dry and if there is any vinegar left, discard it. Grate the onion using a box grater and then grate the garlic cloves with the help of a microplane. Add them both to the bowl.
  2. Next, add the ground beef, egg, olive oil, seasoning, and parsley and mix until all the ingredients are thoroughly incorporated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least half an hour. (This step will make them easier to roll and hold their shape.)
  3. Measure out heaped tablespoons of the mixture and roll into balls. It should make about 25 meatballs. Place them on a tray and set aside.
  4. Place a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat (medium if you have a powerful gas stove). Add enough olive oil to generously cover the bottom of the skillet.
  5. While the oil is heating, dredge the meatballs lightly in the flour, shaking off excess and place them in the hot skillet. (You will need to cook the meatballs in two batches.) Cook on all sides for about 6 minutes, rolling them around so they cook evenly. Once they are nicely browned, remove them from the skillet and keep warm while you work with the second batch.
  6. Place three or four of them on a warm pita and add some tzatziki. Sprinkle with some thinly sliced red onions and minced parsley. Wrap the pita tightly around the meatballs and enjoy!
Recipe by Marilena's Kitchen at https://marilenaskitchen.com/greek-meatballs/