Bifteki - Greek minced cutlets

We would like to present one of the most interesting recipes of Greek cuisine, Bifteki (βιφτέκι). These are cutlets made of minced beef (they look more like meatballs), seasoned with feta cheese and aromatic herbs. It's like a Greek burger, but much more refined. The traditional Bifteki recipe is the essence of Mediterranean flavor. Its simplicity in composing with various accessories makes it one of the inseparable elements of the Greek table.

Bifteki is a mixture of minced beef, fresh garlic, onion, egg and distinctive spices such as oregano and mint. This perfectly prepared mass then takes the form of a rounded cylinder. Inside there is feta cheese, which becomes juicy under the influence of a grilled fire.

Bifteki, although today associated mainly with Greek cuisine, has its roots in the cuisine of shepherds. Initially fried on an open fire, over the years they became a national dish, winning the hearts of Greeks from all social classes.

They go perfectly with a yogurt dip, such as tzatziki, or with a tomato and black olive salad. It is also worth trying to serve them with grilled vegetables, creating a harmonious duo of flavors. Let's not forget about the additions - a fresh baguette or spicy potatoes with lemon oil are the perfect companion for this Greek masterpiece.

When choosing minced meat for Bifteka, it is worth paying attention to the proportion of lean meat to fat. Ground beef tenderloin with a ratio of 85% meat to 15% fat is the perfect choice. Thanks to this, the dish becomes juicy, tasty and unforgettable.

Some recipes enrich the dish with additional ingredients, such as cumin and coriander. In Greek places, instead of classic gyros, they often serve Bifteki pita, which is a unique alternative.