Bifteki

Bifteki Recipe from Greece - Ground Beef, Feta, and Tomato

Region / culture: Greece | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 5

Introduction

Bifteki, a delightful variation of the traditional hamburger, hails from the vibrant culinary landscape of Greece. This dish transforms the humble burger into a feast of flavors, incorporating aromatic herbs, spices, and the tangy richness of feta cheese. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, Bifteki promises a mouthwatering journey through Mediterranean cuisine.

History

The origins of Bifteki can be traced back to the culinary crossroads of the Mediterranean and the Middle East, where meat patties have been a staple for centuries. The Greek version, with its unique blend of spices and the addition of feta cheese, has evolved over time, reflecting the country's rich history and the influence of various cultures that have passed through its lands.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) ground beef
0.5 medium onion, finely diced
1 egg white or 2 tbsp plain yogurt
0.5 cup chopped fresh parsley or 0.5 tsp dried
0.75 tsp dried oregano
0.5 tsp cumin
0.5 tsp garlic salt
0.5 tsp black pepper
1 medium tomato
4 oz (113 g) feta cheese
1 tbsp olive oil
parsley sprigs for garnish
tzatziki

How to prepare

Place ground beef in a bowl.
Add onion and egg white, then mix thoroughly using your hands.
Add parsley, oregano, cumin, garlic salt, and pepper.
Mix well, then divide the mixture into 5 equal portions.
Slice 5 thin slices of tomato.
Cut the remaining tomato into wedges or thick slices.
Slice the feta cheese into 5 thin slices.
Divide each portion of the meat mixture into 2 pieces.
Flatten each piece into a very thin patty.
Place a slice of tomato and a slice of feta on top of one patty.
Cover with another patty and gently seal the edges to prevent cheese from leaking out.
Repeat the process with the remaining patties.
Brush the grill with olive oil and cook the burgers slowly over medium heat until the insides are thoroughly cooked. Alternatively, you can fry the burgers in a pan with olive oil.
Serve the burgers with sliced tomato, parsley sprigs, and tzatziki sauce.

Variations

For a lighter version, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
Add a spicy kick with a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños mixed into the meat.
Incorporate spinach or kale into the meat mixture for added nutrients.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Bifteki turns out perfectly juicy and flavorful, consider the following tips:

- Use a mix of beef and lamb for a more authentic taste.

- Ensure the feta cheese is well chilled before slicing, to make handling easier.

- Avoid overworking the meat mixture to keep the patties tender.

- Let the patties rest for a few minutes after cooking to redistribute the juices.

Serving Suggestions

Bifteki can be served on a bed of fresh greens, alongside roasted vegetables, or with a side of Greek salad. For a more traditional approach, serve with warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a generous helping of Kalamata olives.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling is the traditional method for cooking Bifteki, providing a smoky flavor that complements the spices. However, pan-frying in a skillet is an excellent alternative, especially for achieving a crispy outer crust.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute lamb for beef for a more traditional flavor.

- Use goat cheese or halloumi instead of feta for a different taste profile.

- Replace fresh parsley with cilantro for a unique twist.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the patties ahead of time and refrigerate for up to a day before cooking. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together more fully.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Bifteki on a platter garnished with lemon wedges, fresh parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil for a visually appealing and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

A robust red wine, such as a Greek Agiorgitiko or a Cabernet Sauvignon, pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of Bifteki. For a non-alcoholic option, consider a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Bifteki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet or in the oven to preserve the moisture and flavor.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Bifteki contains about 300-400 calories, making it a hearty option that fits well into a balanced diet. The exact calorie count can vary based on the proportions of ingredients used.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Bifteki is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary sources being the onion and tomato. The exact carbohydrate content can vary, but a single serving typically contains approximately 5-10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The fat content in Bifteki primarily comes from the ground beef and feta cheese. Using lean ground beef can help reduce the total fat content. On average, a serving may contain about 20-30 grams of fat, with a significant portion being saturated fat from the cheese.

Proteins

Bifteki is an excellent source of protein, thanks to the ground beef and feta cheese. A single serving can provide approximately 25-30 grams of protein, making it a satisfying and muscle-building option for a meal.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin B12 from the beef, calcium from the feta cheese, and Vitamin C from the tomatoes. It also provides iron, zinc, and selenium, contributing to a balanced diet.

Alergens

The primary allergens in Bifteki include dairy (from the feta cheese) and potential gluten, depending on the breadcrumbs or any accompaniments served with the dish. It's also important to note the egg white used in binding the patties.

Summary

Bifteki is a nutritious and flavorful dish, offering a good balance of proteins, fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. While it is relatively low in carbohydrates, it is rich in flavors and textures that make it a satisfying meal.

Summary

Bifteki is a versatile and flavorful dish that brings a touch of Greek cuisine to your table. With its rich history, nutritional benefits, and delicious taste, it's a wonderful way to diversify your meal repertoire and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a strong memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Bifteki. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the small village of Kalamata in Greece. My grandmother, Yiayia Maria, was known for her amazing cooking skills and she was always happy to share her recipes with me.

One hot summer day, Yiayia Maria invited me into her kitchen to help her prepare dinner for the family. As we worked side by side, she told me stories of how she learned to cook from her own mother and grandmothers, passing down family recipes that had been in our family for generations.

As we chopped fresh herbs and mixed ground beef with breadcrumbs and spices, Yiayia Maria explained that Bifteki was a traditional Greek dish that was often enjoyed at family gatherings and celebrations. She told me that each family had their own variation of the recipe, but the key ingredients were always the same - ground meat, onions, garlic, and a blend of herbs and spices.

I watched in awe as Yiayia Maria shaped the meat mixture into patties and carefully placed them on a hot grill. The sizzling sound and mouthwatering aroma filled the kitchen, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.

As we sat down to dinner that night, my family raved about the Bifteki. The flavors were rich and savory, with a hint of smokiness from the grill. I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own cooking repertoire.

Over the years, I have made Bifteki countless times, each time adding my own twist to the traditional recipe. I have shared it with friends and family, always receiving compliments and requests for the recipe. It brings me joy to know that I am carrying on the culinary traditions of my ancestors and passing them down to future generations.

I have fond memories of cooking Bifteki with my own children, just as Yiayia Maria did with me. As we gather around the dinner table, sharing stories and laughter, I am reminded of the importance of family and tradition. Cooking is not just about nourishing the body, but also nourishing the soul.

As I look back on that day in Yiayia Maria's kitchen, I am grateful for the gift of her knowledge and the love she poured into every dish she made. I will always cherish the memories of cooking with her and the lessons she taught me about the power of good food to bring people together.

And so, I will continue to make Bifteki, honoring the legacy of my grandmother and sharing the flavors of my heritage with those I love. Each bite of this delicious dish is a reminder of the bonds that connect us, transcending time and distance. In the kitchen, surrounded by the aromas of garlic and herbs, I feel closer to my roots and grateful for the traditions that have shaped me into the cook I am today.