---
title: Classic Greek Keftedes
description: Authentic crispy Greek meatballs scented with fresh mint, oregano, grated onion juices, and garlic, fried to a deep golden crust and served hot with lemon wedges and tzatziki.
servings: 4
prep time: 20 minutes
cook time: 15 minutes
chill time: 30 minutes
tags:
  - mains
  - greek
  - beef
  - pork
  - meatballs
  - mediterranean
---

= Prepare Onion & Aromatics

Finely grate @large red onion{1} on a #box grater{} directly into a #large mixing bowl{}.

> Secret: Grating the onion instead of chopping releases all the savory onion juices, which keeps the meatballs exceptionally juicy and flavorful.

Finely mince @garlic{2%cloves}, finely chop @fresh mint{2%tbsp}, and finely chop @fresh parsley{2%tbsp}.

= Mix & Knead Meat

To the bowl with the grated onion and juices, add @minced meat{500%g} (beef, or a 50/50 mix of beef and pork), @large egg{1}, plain @breadcrumbs{50%g}, minced garlic, chopped mint, chopped parsley, @dried oregano{1%tbsp}, @olive oil{1%tbsp}, @red wine vinegar{1%splash}, @salt{1%tsp}, and freshly cracked @black pepper{1/2%tsp}.

Knead the mixture thoroughly with your hands for ~{2-3%minutes} until cohesive and slightly sticky so the meatballs hold their shape in the pan.

= Chill & Shape

Cover the bowl and rest in the #fridge{} for ~{30%minutes} to hydrate the breadcrumbs, develop the herbs, and make the meat easier to roll.

Scoop out golf-ball-sized portions (about 30 g each) and roll between your palms into smooth round balls, pressing gently to flatten the top and bottom slightly so they sit flat in the pan.

= Pan-Fry to Deep Golden

Pour @oil for frying{80%ml} into a #large skillet{} over medium-high heat until hot and shimmering.

Fry the meatballs in batches without crowding the pan for ~{8-10%minutes}, turning occasionally with #tongs{}, until a deep, dark golden-brown crust forms on all sides and they are cooked through.

Transfer the cooked keftedes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

= Serving & Baking Alternative

Serve piping hot garnished with fresh mint leaves, wedges of @lemon{}, and cool @./sauces/fresh-greek-tzatziki{}.

> Baking Alternative: For a lighter version, arrange the meatballs on a parchment-lined #baking sheet{}, drizzle lightly with olive oil, and bake at 200°C for ~{20-25%minutes}, turning halfway through.