Grilled meatballs

Grilled meatballs – a delicacy that brings joy to tables around the world! These juicy and flavorful meatballs are a versatile dish, perfect for a family dinner or a barbecue with friends. I invite you to discover the simple steps to create the tastiest meatballs that will surely impress anyone who tastes them.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 500 g ground beef
- 1 small onion, grated
- 1 slice of dry bread (crumb)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon ouzo (or vinegar)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Oregano, to taste
- Juice of one lemon

Step by step: How to prepare grilled meatballs

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients

Start by preparing the ingredients. Use quality ground beef, preferably with a moderate fat content to achieve juicy meatballs. Some people prefer meat mixtures, adding pork for extra flavor. The grated onion will add moisture and a sweet taste to your meatballs.

Step 2: Perfect moisture

Soak the slice of bread in water and squeeze it well. Place the bread crumb in a large bowl, adding the ground beef, grated onion, olive oil, ouzo (or vinegar), and spices – salt, pepper, and oregano. These flavors combine perfectly and give a Mediterranean taste to your meatballs.

Step 3: The perfect mix

Mix all the ingredients well with your hands until you get a homogeneous composition. It is important not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough. Shape the meatballs the size of a golf ball and place them on a plate.

Step 4: Refrigeration

This step can be skipped if you're in a hurry, but I recommend letting the meatballs rest in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to combine and help maintain the shape of the meatballs during cooking.

Step 5: The grill

Prepare the grill! Brush the grill with a little oil to prevent the meatballs from sticking. Place the meatballs on the preheated grill over medium heat. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, carefully turning them to avoid cracking. Brushing with a little oil during cooking will help achieve a golden and crispy crust.

Step 6: Finishing

When the meatballs are nicely browned and cooked evenly, drizzle them with lemon juice to add a fresh and tangy note. This step is essential, as lemon will balance the richness of the meat and enhance the flavors.

Serving and suggestions

Grilled meatballs are excellent served alongside a fresh Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese. You can also prepare a yogurt sauce with mint to accompany them – a refreshing and delicious combination. If you want to add a carbohydrate element, serve them with warm pita or rice.

Variations

If you want to experiment, you can add fresh herbs to the meatball mixture, such as parsley or dill, to give them an even more intense flavor. Also, instead of ouzo, you can use white wine or even beer for a different twist.

Nutrition and benefits

Beef meatballs are a good source of protein, essential for building muscle mass. Additionally, onions provide antioxidant benefits, and olive oil is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It's important to keep portion sizes in mind, as they can contribute to a significant caloric intake. A serving of grilled meatballs has about 300-350 calories, depending on the amount of oil used and added ingredients.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use chicken or pork?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of meat! Chicken or pork meatballs will have a different texture and taste, but they will be just as delicious.

2. How can I store leftover meatballs?
Meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or on the grill.

3. Can I make meatballs gluten-free?
Absolutely! Replace the bread with ground oats or a gluten-free alternative.

4. What drinks pair well with grilled meatballs?
White wines, such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light red wine, such as Pinot Noir, pair very well with these meatballs. Additionally, a cold blonde beer is an excellent choice for a relaxed barbecue atmosphere.

In conclusion, grilled meatballs are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that can be adapted to your preferences. Enjoy the cooking process and the moments spent with loved ones! Bon appétit!