Kufteta is a traditional Bulgarian meatball dish that is served year-round. I grew up eating these traditional meatballs called “kufte” and they are similar to a savory meatball or a homemade burger. Kufteta are made with ground meat combined with onion, egg, cheese, and spices. They are baked, fried, or grilled. These Bulgarian meatballs “kufteta” are a staple dish on every Bulgarian and Eastern European table.
These authentic Bulgarian meatballs are mouth-watering juicy meat patties that are perfect for any gathering and are great for lunch or dinner. They are quick and easy to make, and they are for sure a crowd-pleaser. They resemble a burger, but they are smaller in size and are typically not eaten between bread buns as a typical burger would be but are served instead on their own as the main dish along with fries, a salad, and a cold beverage. They are a perfect quick dinner or can also be served as an appetizer.
Most countries in Eastern Europe have their own version of this meatball and moreover, every family in those countries has their own version of this delicious meatball recipe which is then passed down for generations. I am sharing the recipe for this Bulgarian meatball that I grew up with and now make for my own family.
These meatballs are essentially meat patties made with ground pork, chicken, beef, veal, or a combination of any of these. The meat is combined with onions, eggs, and spices such as salt, pepper, cumin, parsley, and of course, savory. This is the most used and loved spice in Bulgaria and some of Eastern Europe. It is added to most savory Bulgarian dishes. It can be purchased in most international food stores as well as online here. The patties are then fried, grilled, or baked. They are typically served with a salad, rice or fries, tzatziki, or a piece of fresh bread.
Why you will love these traditional Bulgarian meatballs (kufteta)
Delicious – These meatballs are truly amazing! All the ingredients complement each other so well when combined and the result is always a juicy and mouthwatering delicious meatball.
Quick and Easy – Do not let this recipe intimidate you. These are very quick and easy meatballs to make that do not require a lot of ingredients and are a great alternative to the typical burger. Since these meatballs are ready in under 30 minutes, they are perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
Healthy – These Bulgarian meatballs are filling, comforting, and satisfying but they are also healthy and high in protein. These are low-carb and gluten-free. I like to fry my meatballs but for even healthier meatballs, bake them in the oven instead.
Unique – These meatballs are unique and delicious and sure to be a conversation starter at any party you host or bring these to. I have made these for so many friends throughout the years, and everyone absolutely loves them!
Ingredients
- Meat – I like to use a combination of ground pork and ground chicken. I find that this combination of ground meat makes the meatballs light and juicy but also very flavorful. You can also use ground pork, chicken, beef, veal, meatloaf mix, or a combination of any of these.
- Onion – finely chopped or grated
- Egg – the egg helps bind everything together
- Cheese – any of your favorite shredded cheeses will work for this recipe. I use whatever shredded cheese we have on hand. For this recipe, I used a Mexican cheese blend.
- Milk – I add a little bit of milk to my meatballs. I love how moist and juicy the meatballs turn out every time!
- Spices – Other than salt and pepper, and parsley (and cumin, if preferred), traditionally the Bulgarian meatballs are seasoned with a Bulgarian savory spice. Get yours here.
How to make Bulgarian meatballs (Kufteta)
See the recipe card below this post for ingredient quantities and full instructions.
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground meat. Then crack the egg, add the cheese and the minced onion. Add the milk and the spices and mix very well with your hands.
Wet your hands and form the meatballs, gently flatten them as you would a burger, and then fry them on both sides in a large skillet over medium heat.
Once all the meatballs have been cooked on both sides until nice and golden brown, transfer them to a large foiled-lined baking sheet and bake them for 10 minutes to ensure the inside is cooked.
Serving suggestions
You can serve these delicious meatballs with any of the below side dishes:
Traditional Bulgarian Potato salad
Greek salad – tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and feta cheese with olive oil and vinegar vinaigrette
Tzatziki
Any green leafy salad
A piece of toast or a fresh slice of bread
Any roasted, fresh, or canned vegetables of your choice
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Kufteta – Traditional Bulgarian meatball recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground pork
- 1 lb. ground chicken
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 cup of shredded cheese
- 2 teaspoons Savory spice optional but recommended
- 1 tsp cumin optional
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 3-4 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon parsley fresh or dried
- 1/3 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons of soy sauce optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 F degrees.
- Finely chop the onion and set aside.
- Heat oil in a large pan or skillet.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, onion, egg, cheese, milk, and spices. Mix well with your hands until well combined.
- Wet your hands and form the meatballs as big or small as you like. Start by forming them into a round shape but gently flatten them before placing them in the skillet.
- Fry them on both sides until browned.
- Line a baking sheet with foil and place the meatballs in one layer on the baking sheet. Once all the meatballs are fried, transfer them to the baking sheet and bake them for about 10 minutes to ensure the inside is cooked through.
- Serve with your favorite fresh or cooked vegetables, fries, rice, or salad (see above for serving suggestions)
- Enjoy!
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