Keftedakia: A Greek Classic Loved by All Generations
If you've ever sat down at a Greek family table, chances are you've come across a plate of keftedakia—those irresistibly tender, golden-fried meatballs bursting with flavour. In Greece, keftedakia aren't just food—they're tradition, comfort, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults.
These little bites of joy are a staple in Greek households. Served hot or at room temperature, they often appear as part of a family meal, a mezze platter, or tucked into school lunchboxes. Kids absolutely adore them, and it's easy to see why: they’re bite-sized, packed with savory goodness, and made with love.
The beauty of keftedakia lies in their simplicity and the aromatic herbs that give them their distinct Greek flavor. Fresh mint and parsley bring a brightness that balances the richness of the meat, while garlic and oregano add depth and warmth. Shallow frying them in olive oil gives them a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and flavourful.
Here’s my go-to keftedakia recipe that’s always a hit at gatherings—and especially popular with the little ones!
KEFTEDAKIA | Greek Beef Meatballs
Mary PolitisIngredients
- 800 g beef mince I use 10% fat
- 1 large onion grated
- 2 - 3 cloves garlic minced
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup fresh mint chopped
- ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil or your preferred oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine all ingredients
- Mix thoroughly with your hands until the mixture is well combined and holds together.
- Roll just under a tablespoon of the mixture into small balls.
- Shallow fry in olive oil for about 2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.