Mediterranean > Greek

Greek-Style Steamed Meatballs Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/4 cup water

Special equipment needed:
- Steamer basket
- Large mixing bowl
- Small mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Garlic press (optional)

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In a small mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 5 minutes.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, parsley, mint, dill, onion, garlic, egg, salt, black pepper, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, and allspice.

3. Add breadcrumb mixture to the large mixing bowl and mix until well combined.

4. Using your hands, form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

5. Place the meatballs in a steamer basket and pour water into the bottom of the pot.

6. Cover the pot and steam the meatballs for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.

7. Remove the meatballs from the steamer basket and serve hot.


Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Temperature:
Steamer basket: Medium heat
Serving size:
Makes about 20 meatballs

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 70
Fat: 3g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 7g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground lamb or turkey can be substituted for the ground beef.
- Panko breadcrumbs can be substituted for regular breadcrumbs.
- If fresh herbs are not available, dried herbs can be used instead.

Variations:
- Add crumbled feta cheese to the meatball mixture for a Greek twist.
- Serve the meatballs with tzatziki sauce for dipping.
- Make larger meatballs and serve them over a bed of rice or with a side salad.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to mix the meatball mixture well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Wet your hands with water before forming the meatballs to prevent sticking.
- If the meatballs are not cooked through after 20 minutes, continue steaming for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Storage instructions:
Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the meatballs in a steamer basket and steam for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the meatballs on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving.

Garnishes:
Garnish with additional fresh herbs or lemon wedges.

Pairings:
Serve with a Greek salad or roasted vegetables.

Suggested side dishes:
- Rice pilaf
- Roasted potatoes
- Grilled vegetables

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the meatballs are falling apart, add more breadcrumbs to the mixture.
- If the meatballs are too dry, add a little more milk to the breadcrumb mixture.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure the meatballs are cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure they are safe to eat.
- Wash your hands and all surfaces that come into contact with the raw meat thoroughly to prevent cross-contamination.

Food history:
Meatballs are a popular dish in many cultures, including Greek cuisine. They are often served as an appetizer or main course.

Flavor profiles:
Greek-style meatballs are flavored with a combination of fresh herbs and spices, including parsley, mint, dill, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, and allspice.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the meatballs as an appetizer or main course with a side salad or roasted vegetables.

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Region: Greek

Taste: Savory, Tangy, Herbal, Aromatic, Spicy