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Platter of Greek meatballs in a bright lemon sauce

Proven way to grow authentic Greek Meatballs in Lemon.

These authentic Greek Meatballs in Lemon are bursting with flavor and are surprisingly easy to make. They are perfect as a main course or a delicious appetizer.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Meatballs
  • 500 g ground beef
  • 1 onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 egg
  • 0.5 cup bread crumbs
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
Lemon Sauce
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 0.25 cup lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • 2 egg yolks
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill chopped
For Serving
  • rice or pasta cooked
Oil for frying
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Equipment

  • large bowl
  • large skillet
  • whisk
  • small bowl

Method
 

Meatball Preparation
  1. Combine ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, bread crumbs, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and form small, uniform meatballs.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then carefully add the meatballs in a single layer. Brown the meatballs on all sides, ensuring they are cooked through; remove and set aside.
Lemon Sauce Preparation
  1. In the same skillet, whisk together chicken broth, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly, until it begins to thicken.
  2. In a separate small bowl, whisk the egg yolks, then gradually temper them by slowly adding a small amount of the hot broth mixture while continuously whisking.
  3. Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the simmering sauce in the skillet and continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
  4. Return the browned meatballs to the skillet with the lemon sauce and simmer for 5-7 minutes, ensuring the meatballs are heated through and coated in the sauce.
  5. Stir in fresh dill before serving for an added burst of flavor and freshness. Serve immediately over cooked rice or pasta.

Notes

For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of nutmeg to the meatballs. Adjust lemon juice to your taste preference. Serve with a side of warm pita bread to soak up the delicious sauce.