Biftekia (Greek Hamburgers/Meat Patties)

Ingredients

• 600g Ground beef
• 1 Small onion (finely grated)
• 2 Garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 Egg
• 2 EL Breadcrumbs
• 2 EL chopped parsley
• 1 TL dried oregano
• 1/4 TL ground nutmeg
• Salz Salt
• Pfeffer Pepper
• Olivenöl (zum Braten) Olive oil (for frying)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine 600g fresh ground beef, the finely grated small onion, two minced garlic cloves, one egg, two tablespoons of breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, dried oregano, nutmeg, salt, and freshly ground pepper. Ensure all ingredients are well distributed to optimize the flavor of your Greek hamburgers.
2. Mix everything well with your hands, but do not overmix, as this can lead to tough meat patties. Knead only until all ingredients are just combined, ensuring a uniform mixture for the best results and juicy Biftekia.
3. Let the prepared ground beef mixture rest for about 15 minutes at room temperature. This allows the flavors to meld and the breadcrumbs to absorb moisture, improving the consistency significantly. A resting period is crucial for juicy results.
4. Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape them into flat, round patties of about 2 cm thickness. Ensure they are uniformly shaped for even cooking later. Consistent size is important for the final cooking result and an appealing presentation.
5. Heat some olive oil in a large frying pan or grill pan over medium-high heat (approx. 180-200°C). The oil should be hot enough for the patties to sizzle immediately. Good heat ensures a beautiful crust and prevents sticking, crucial for perfect Biftekia.
6. Carefully place the Biftekia into the hot pan and fry them for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should be 70°C. Flip them only once to achieve a nice browning and avoid drying out.
7. Alternatively, you can prepare the Biftekia on a preheated grill over medium heat (approx. 180°C). Grill the patties equally for 4-5 minutes per side until they have nice grill marks and are cooked through. Pay attention to the doneness and flip carefully.
8. Remove the cooked meat patties from the pan or grill and let them drain briefly on paper towels to remove excess fat. Serve them immediately while hot. They pair wonderfully with tzatziki and a fresh salad – a true Greek delight. Enjoy your meal!

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