Chiftele with a Twist

Ingredients

• 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 eggs 2 eggs
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying Vegetable oil for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 7g, 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, eggs, parsley, dill, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about the size of a golf ball.
3. 3.
   Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
4. 4.
   Fry the meatballs in batches until they are golden brown on all sides, turning them gently to ensure even cooking.
5. 5.
   Once cooked, transfer the meatballs to a paper towel-lined plate to remove any excess oil.
6. 6.
   Serve the Chiftele hot with your choice of side dishes.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef — Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option. If you prefer a richer flavor, opt for ground beef with a slightly higher fat content.
• Lemon zest — Make sure to use organic lemons and wash them thoroughly before zesting. Only grate the outer yellow part of the lemon, avoiding the bitter white pith.

Tips & Tricks

• For a lighter version, you can bake the meatballs in the oven instead of frying them. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 180°C (350°F) for approximately 20 minutes, or until they are cooked through.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of your Chiftele. Try adding a pinch of paprika or cumin for a smoky twist.
• If you prefer a softer texture, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for a few minutes before adding them to the meat mixture.

Serving advice

Serve the Chiftele hot as a main course, accompanied by mashed potatoes and a fresh salad. They can also be enjoyed as an appetizer or as part of a buffet spread.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Chiftele on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs such as parsley or dill. Serve them with a side of creamy tzatziki sauce or a dollop of sour cream for an extra touch of indulgence.