KEFTEDAKIA (GREEK MINT AND OUZO FLAVORED MEATBALLS)

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Keftedakia (Greek Mint and Ouzo Flavored Meatballs) image

Make and share this Keftedakia (Greek Mint and Ouzo Flavored Meatballs) recipe from Food.com.

Provided by Mimi Bobeck

Categories     Lunch/Snacks

Time 30m

Yield 30 Meatballs, 6 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 11

2 slices home-made style bread, trimmed of crust and torn into small pieces
1/4 cup ouzo (or substitute another anise flavored liqueur)
6 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
1 lb lean ground beef
1 egg
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh mint leaves or 1 teaspoon dried mint
1 garlic clove, finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
salt & freshly ground black pepper
1 cup all-purpose flour

Steps:

  • Soak the bread in the ouzo for at least 5 minutes.
  • Heat half the olive oil in a skillet over moderate heat, add the onions, and cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are soft but not brown.
  • Remove the onions with a slotted spoon, placing them in a large mixing bowl.
  • Squeeze the bread dry (discard the ouzo) and add the bread to the onions.
  • Add the ground beef, egg, mint, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and knead vigorously with your hands, then beat with a wooden spoon until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
  • Shape the beef mixture into balls about the size of walnuts (you may find that wetting your hands with water helps prevent sticking) and then roll the meatballs in the flour to coat evenly.
  • Place the meatballs on a cookie sheet and refrigerate for at least one hour.
  • Add the remaining olive oil to a large skillet and brown the meatballs, 7 or 8 at a time, over high heat, cooking 8 to 10 minutes and shaking the pan from time to time.
  • As each batch is done, remove them with a slotted spoon and place on an ovenproof serving platter.
  • Keep them warm in a 200°F (100°C) oven while you finish cooking the rest.

SUMON GAMER YT
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These keftedakia were amazing! The flavors were so well-balanced, and the meatballs were cooked perfectly. I highly recommend this recipe.


Fanni Nyitrai
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I'm not a big fan of mint, so I was hesitant to try these meatballs. But I'm so glad I did! The mint flavor was subtle and refreshing, and it really complemented the other flavors in the meatballs. I'll definitely be making these again.


Kay Nelson
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These meatballs were a bit dry for my taste. I think I'll try adding some more moisture next time, maybe some grated zucchini or feta cheese.


chepkurui mercy
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I've made these keftedakia several times now, and they're always a crowd-pleaser. They're so easy to make, and they always turn out perfectly. I love the combination of flavors in these meatballs - the mint and ouzo really make them special.


R Schraeder
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These keftedakia were absolutely delicious! The mint and ouzo flavors were perfectly balanced, and the meatballs were cooked to perfection. I served them with a side of tzatziki sauce and pita bread, and they were a hit with my family. I'll definitel