The Recipe · No.1032 · Keftedes

Keftedes, and where to source it

Keftedes — Worth The Hunt WORTH THE HUNT Keftedes Greek 5best2buy.com

Stale bread soaked in water or wine and squeezed dry, not breadcrumbs, is the binder that keeps keftedes tender. It holds moisture the way dry crumbs can't, so the meatballs stay soft inside instead of turning dense. Fresh mint is the other non-negotiable.

By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026

Prep25 min
Cook15 min
Makesserves 6
CuisineGreek
Cost$$$
Dairy-free
Contains  eggs · gluten
Make it gluten-free: swap in a gluten-free flour blend (check the other labels too).
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for 6 servings
Ground beef or lamb
Or a mix; lamb leans more traditional and richer.
1 lb
Source it →
Stale bread
Crustless, soaked and squeezed dry — the real binder, not dry crumbs.
2 thick slices
Local / market
Fresh mint
Chopped; the herb that defines keftedes.
1/4 cup
Source it →
Onion
Grated so it disappears into the mix and adds moisture.
1
Source it →
Garlic
Minced fine.
2 cloves
Source it →
Egg
One, to help the mix hold.
1
Source it →
Dried oregano
Greek oregano, with the mint.
1 tsp
Source it →
Flour
For a light dredge before frying.
1/2 cup
Local / market
The Rundown
Greedometer ●●●●● Barely a splurge
A light hand — your arteries say thanks. · plan ahead — needs marinating, soaking, or resting time
EffortSome doing
Cook it with
Air fryer
The Method
  1. Soak the breadSoak stale bread in water, then squeeze out all the liquid.
  2. MixCombine meat, squeezed bread, grated onion, garlic, mint, oregano, egg, salt and pepper by hand.
  3. RestChill the mix at least 30 minutes so the flavors set and it firms up.
  4. Shape and dredgeRoll into small balls and dredge lightly in flour.
  5. FryFry in hot oil, turning, until deep brown and cooked through. Serve with lemon.
The Toolkit

Frying pan · Mixing bowl · Box grater

Straight Answers
Can you make Keftedes in an air fryer? — Yes

Yes — this is exactly what an air fryer does well. Work in a single layer so the air can move, and shake or flip halfway for even crisping. It runs a touch faster than the oven, so check early.

Can you freeze Keftedes? — Yes

Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.

Can you make Keftedes ahead of time? — Yes

Yes — it needs the chill time to set, so making it ahead is the whole point.

Is Keftedes gluten-free? — Not as written

Not as written — it contains gluten. Make it gluten-free: swap in a gluten-free flour blend (check the other labels too).

Is Keftedes vegan? — No

No — it contains meat, so it isn’t vegetarian or vegan.

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© 2026 5best2buy · Worth The Hunt · Recipe No.1032