Keftedes apo Spanaki
Keftedes apo Spanaki Recipe from Greece: Delicious Spinach and Onion Patties
Introduction
Keftedes apo Spanaki, also known as Greek spinach balls, are a delicious and nutritious appetizer or side dish that is perfect for any occasion. Made with fresh spinach, onions, dill, and a few other simple ingredients, these flavorful balls are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
History
Keftedes apo Spanaki has its origins in Greek cuisine, where spinach is a popular and widely used ingredient. The combination of spinach, onions, and herbs like dill creates a unique and delicious flavor profile that is loved by many.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Finely chop the spinach, onions, and dill. Place them in a bowl.
- Beat the eggs and add the flour, cheese, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix well to create a thick mixture.
- Shape the mixture into balls and fry them on both sides.
Variations
- Add crumbled feta cheese to the mixture for an extra burst of flavor.
- Substitute the spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a different twist on the recipe.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to thoroughly strain the boiled spinach to remove excess water, as this will help prevent the mixture from becoming too wet.
- Make sure to season the mixture well with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors of the dish.
- Fry the spinach balls in batches to ensure they cook evenly and develop a nice golden crust.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Keftedes apo Spanaki as an appetizer with tzatziki sauce or a Greek salad on the side.
Cooking Techniques
Fry the spinach balls in a skillet over medium heat until they are golden brown on all sides.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have fresh spinach, you can use frozen spinach that has been thawed and well drained.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the mixture for the spinach balls ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to fry them.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the spinach balls on a platter garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Keftedes apo Spanaki pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and rice pilaf.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover spinach balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Keftedes apo Spanaki contains approximately 150 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Keftedes apo Spanaki contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Keftedes apo Spanaki contains approximately 8 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Keftedes apo Spanaki contains approximately 6 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Keftedes apo Spanaki is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium.
Alergens
This recipe contains eggs and cheese, which may be allergens for some individuals.
Summary
Keftedes apo Spanaki is a nutritious dish that is rich in vitamins and minerals, while also being relatively low in calories.
Summary
Keftedes apo Spanaki is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With its flavorful combination of spinach, onions, and herbs, these spinach balls are sure to become a new favorite in your household.
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her small village in Greece. As soon as I stepped into her kitchen, I was greeted by the tantalizing aroma of herbs and spices wafting through the air.
Maria was bustling around the kitchen, her hands moving with the precision of a seasoned cook. She had a mischievous twinkle in her eye as she handed me a glass of ouzo and said, "Today, we are going to make keftedes apo spanaki - spinach meatballs. It's a family recipe that has been passed down for generations."
I watched with fascination as Maria expertly mixed together ground beef, finely chopped spinach, onions, garlic, and a medley of herbs and spices. She then formed the mixture into small balls and fried them to a golden brown perfection.
As we sat down to enjoy our meal, Maria shared the story of how she learned to make keftedes apo spanaki. She told me that her own grandmother had taught her the recipe when she was just a young girl, and that she had treasured it ever since.
I was captivated by the rich history and tradition behind this simple dish. I could almost taste the love and care that had gone into each ingredient, each step of the cooking process. And as I took my first bite of the crispy, flavorful meatballs, I knew that I had stumbled upon a culinary gem.
When I returned home from my trip to Greece, I was eager to recreate the magic of Maria's keftedes apo spanaki in my own kitchen. I carefully followed the recipe, taking my time to chop the spinach finely, season the meat mixture just right, and fry the meatballs until they were perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
As the familiar scent of herbs and spices filled my kitchen, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. I had unlocked the secrets of a cherished family recipe, and I knew that it would become a staple in my own repertoire for years to come.
Over the years, I have continued to make keftedes apo spanaki for my family and friends, each time adding my own twist to the recipe. Sometimes I substitute lamb for beef, or add a touch of feta cheese for extra richness. And each time, the dish is met with rave reviews and requests for seconds.
But no matter how many times I make keftedes apo spanaki, the memory of that first time learning the recipe from Maria will always hold a special place in my heart. It was a moment of connection and tradition, a glimpse into the culinary heritage of a beautiful country and a dear friend.
And as I sit down to enjoy a plate of meatballs that are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with the flavors of herbs and spices, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together, to tell stories, and to create lasting memories. Keftedes apo spanaki will always be more than just a recipe to me - it is a piece of my own history, a link to the past, and a delicious reminder of the joys of cooking and sharing with loved ones.
Categories
| Cheese Recipes | Dill Recipes | Greek Appetizers | Greek Recipes | Kefalotyri Recipes | Spinach Recipes |