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Baked beef patties served on a plate with garnishes

Biftekia au four

A delightful Greek dish featuring juicy ground beef patties enriched with herbs and spices, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8 patties
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Greek
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 600 gr ground beef preferably with 15% fat for a juicy texture
  • 1 large onion, finely grated
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced for an aromatic kick
  • 50 gr stale bread or breadcrumbs if needed, to bind the mixture
  • 100 ml water or milk, which adds moisture and richness
  • 1 medium egg helps bind the ingredients together
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano bringing warm and woody flavors
  • ½ bunch fresh mint, finely chopped to enhance freshness
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for a light, smooth finish
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 handful fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped optional
  • 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar optional, tenderizing the meat with a slight tang

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Soak the stale bread in water for about 5 minutes to soften it.
  2. Once soaked, squeeze out the excess liquid from the bread by hand and set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, grated onion, minced garlic, and drained bread.
  4. Chop the fresh mint and parsley, add them to the mixture along with the dried oregano.
  5. Crack the egg into the mixture, add the red wine vinegar if using, and season with salt and pepper.
  6. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly for at least 5 minutes to achieve a uniform texture.
  7. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes, ideally one hour.
Cooking
  1. Divide the meat mixture into 8 equal portions and form each into a thick, oval patty.
  2. Lightly oil your hands with olive oil and smooth the surface of each patty.
  3. Preheat your oven to 200°C, or prepare your grill/barbecue.
  4. If baking, place the Biftekia on a lined baking sheet and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway.
  5. If grilling, cook over medium-high heat for 8 to 10 minutes on each side until crispy on the outside.
Serving
  1. Serve your Biftekia with a drizzle of lemon juice, fresh tzatziki, and a side of roasted potatoes or pilaf rice.

Notes

Opt for ground beef with higher fat content for juicier Biftekia. Do not skip the chilling step; it’s vital for flavor development and maintaining patty shape.