Authentic Greek Soutzoukakia: A Step-by-Step Recipe

Ingredients

  • 500 grams ground beef
  • 100 grams breadcrumbs
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup red wine
  • 1 can (400 grams) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon sugar

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, cinnamon, nutmeg, oregano, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, pepper, and egg. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined.
  2. Shape the mixture into oval-shaped meatballs, about the size of a small egg.
  3. Heat the remaining olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 10 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the pan and set aside.
  4. In the same pan, add the red wine and scrape the bottom of the pan to remove any browned bits. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, flour, water, and sugar. Stir well to combine.
  5. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Add the meatballs back into the sauce and cover the pan. Cook for about 30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
  6. Season the sauce with additional salt and pepper to taste, if needed. Serve the Soutzoukakia warm, with the sauce poured over top.

Tools for making

  • Large bowl - Used to mix the ingredients for the meatballs.
  • Frying pan - Used to brown the meatballs and make the sauce.
  • Spatula - Used to flip and remove the meatballs from the pan.
  • Whisk - Used to combine the sauce ingredients and remove any lumps.
  • Measuring cups - Used to accurately measure the ingredients.
  • Knife - Used to finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
  • Cutting board - Used as a surface to chop ingredients on.

Recipe variations

  • Instead of ground beef, try using ground lamb or a combination of beef and lamb.
  • Add a tablespoon of finely chopped fresh parsley or mint to the meat mixture for added freshness.
  • For a spicier version, add a pinch of chili flakes or a diced chili pepper to the sauce.
  • Replace breadcrumbs with crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs for a different texture.
  • For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or substitute them with finely ground almonds or almond flour.
  • To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground meat with cooked and mashed chickpeas or lentils. Adjust the seasonings and cooking time accordingly.
  • Experiment with different spices such as paprika, coriander, or thyme to customize the flavor profile.
  • Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to the meat mixture for an umami boost.

Recipe overview

Welcome to our Soutzoukakia recipe! Soutzoukakia, or Greek meatballs in tomato sauce, is a traditional and beloved dish from the country of Greece. This recipe will guide you step-by-step to create the most flavorful, tender meatballs, bathed in a rich, aromatic tomato sauce. You can expect a harmonious blend of spices such as cumin, cinnamon, and nutmeg in the meatballs, which are then simmered to perfection in a red wine-infused tomato sauce. This dish is not only hearty and comforting, but also impressively flavorful. Serve these Soutzoukakia as a main dish with some fresh bread or over rice or pasta to complete your meal. Whether you're preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the process and even more, enjoy your delicious result!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef? Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground lamb, ground pork, or a mixture of different meats according to your preference.
  2. Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying them? Yes, you can bake the meatballs in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and browned.
  3. Can I freeze the meatballs? Yes, you can freeze the cooked meatballs. Once they are cooled, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating.
  4. What can I serve with Soutzoukakia? Soutzoukakia is often served with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread. It can also be accompanied by a side salad or steamed vegetables.
  5. Can I make the sauce in advance? Yes, you can make the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you are ready to serve, reheat the sauce on the stovetop and add the cooked meatballs.
  6. Can I adjust the spiciness of the sauce? Yes, you can adjust the spiciness of the sauce by adding chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper if you prefer a spicier flavor.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to combine the ingredients for the meatballs.
  • Frying Pan - A large frying pan to brown the meatballs.
  • Spatula - A utensil to flip and remove the meatballs from the pan.
  • Spoon - A spoon to stir the sauce and scrape the bottom of the pan.
  • Cover or Lid - A lid or cover to cook the meatballs in the sauce.

Origin stories

Soutzoukakia, these delightful meatballs bathed in a rich tomato sauce, have a tale that is as spicy and intriguing as the dish itself. They're actually a Greek interpretation of a Turkish dish known as İzmir köfte. The city of Izmir, in Turkey, was once a bustling hub of Greek population, and as such, many culinary exchanges took place over time. The Greeks, enamored with the Turkish köfte, adopted it and embellished it with their own distinct flavors like cumin, garlic, and wine-soaked bread. Upon its return to the Greek mainland, it was christened 'Soutzoukakia', a playful nod to the Turkish 'sucuk', a spice-laden sausage. Thus, Soutzoukakia is a tangible memory of the once vibrant Greek community in Izmir, and a testament to the enduring power of food in weaving the tapestry of culture and history.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.