Good evening, my dear friends! Today’s meal is a Greek classic that never fails to bring comfort and joy to the table — Giouvarlakia (Greek Meatballs in Avgolemono Sauce). Tender meatballs simmered in a lemony, egg-based sauce, perfect for a cozy Saturday meal.
Ingredients:
For the meatballs:
- 500g ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup rice (washed)
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
For the sauce:
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 eggs
- Juice of 2 lemons
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped onion, rice, egg, oregano, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix everything together until well combined. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about the size of a walnut.
Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs and brown them lightly on all sides. They don’t need to be fully cooked through at this point, just a little color on the outside.
Prepare the Broth: After browning the meatballs, add the chicken or vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for about 30-40 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
Make the Avgolemono Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and lemon juice together until smooth. Once the meatballs are ready, slowly ladle some of the hot broth into the egg mixture, whisking continuously to temper the eggs and prevent them from curdling.
Finish the Sauce: Slowly pour the tempered egg and lemon mixture back into the pot with the meatballs, stirring gently. Continue to cook for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and become creamy. Be careful not to let it boil, as the eggs may scramble.
Serve: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve the giouvarlakia hot, garnished with extra parsley if you like.
Enjoy your meal! These soft, flavorful meatballs in a tangy, creamy sauce are a true taste of Greek comfort food — perfect for a weekend gathering with family or friends.
Kαλό Σαββατοκύριακο να έχετε όλοι! 😋🍋🍲
Wishing you all a wonderful weekend!
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