Biftekia With Salsa Verde Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it takes the classic burger to a whole new level with its Mediterranean twist and vibrant flavors. The combination of juicy ground beef seasoned with aromatic spices and the fresh salsa verde makes every bite a mouthwatering adventure that I can’t get enough of.

In my kitchen, ground beef becomes a Greek-inspired dish of delightful dimensions when I make Biftekia with Salsa Verde. The rich flavors of cumin and oregano (two of my favorite spices) mingle perfectly with the freshness of parsley, which, along with mint (another favorite of mine), is the star of the zingy salsa verde that dramatically and healthfully ramps up the flavor profile of this dish.

Ingredients

Ground Beef:
Abundant in protein and iron, backs muscle growth.

Red Onion:
Provides a crunchy texture and is a source of antioxidants.

Garlic:
Enhances taste, provides immune system advantages.

Fresh Parsley:
Slightly invigorating and a treasure trove of vitamins A, C, and K.

Dried Oregano:
Fragrant and tasty, with possible antioxidant effects.

Ground Cumin:
Spice, earthy and warm, aids digestion.

Ground Cinnamon:
Gives gentle sweetness, works as an anti-flammatory.

Breadcrumbs:
Delivers texture, assists in binding the biftekia.

Extra-Virgin Olive Oil:
Nutritious fat, boosts taste.

Mint Leaves:
Aid in digestion; tastes refreshing.

Ingredient Quantities

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• 1 pound ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil for grilling
• 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped (for salsa verde)
• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped (for salsa verde)
• 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and chopped (for salsa verde)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (for salsa verde)
• 1 clove garlic, minced (for salsa verde)
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil (for salsa verde)
• Salt and pepper, to taste (for salsa verde)

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Instructions

1. In a giant mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped red onion, minced garlic, 1/4 cup chopped parsley, dried oregano, ground cumin, ground cinnamon, breadcrumbs, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are mixed very well and are thoroughly incorporated.

2. Section off the mix into equal parts, and form them into oval-shaped patties, or “biftekia,” that are about 1/2 inch thick.

3. Add a little olive oil to a grill pan, or preheat a grill to medium-high heat. Brush each biftekia with olive oil so they don’t stick when grilling.

4. Cook the biftekia on the grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are nicely browned on the outside and cooked to your desired level of doneness. These are Greek-style burgers made with ground beef, although you can also use a mixture of ground beef and lamb.

5. As the biftekia grill, make the salsa verde. In a small bowl, mix together, 1 cup of very finely chopped parsley; 1/2 cup of very finely chopped mint; and chopped capers (to taste). Stir in enough lemon juice to make it creamy, then add minced garlic, salt, and 1/4 cup of very fine extra-virgin olive oil.

6. Add salt and pepper to the salsa verde until it tastes just right. Then stir well, ensuring that all the components are thoroughly integrated.

7. Once cooked, transfer the biftekia to a serving platter and allow them to rest for a few minutes.

8. Spoon the salsa verde over the grilled biftekia, and do it generously.

9. Biftekia can be served with some extra salsa verde for those who would like more.

10. Savor the delightful taste of your homemade biftekia paired with fresh, zesty salsa verde!

Equipment Needed

1. Giant mixing bowl
2. Measuring cups
3. Measuring spoons
4. Knife
5. Cutting board
6. Garlic press or mincer
7. Grill pan or outdoor grill
8. Brush for oil
9. Small mixing bowl
10. Spoon or tongs
11. Serving platter

FAQ

• Q: Can I use a different type of meat for biftekia?A: Yes, you can use ground lamb or a combination of beef and pork to create a different flavor.
• Q: What if I don’t have fresh herbs for the salsa verde?A: Dried herbs can be used, but about one-third of the amount should be used because dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
• Q: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?A: If necessary, either substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free ones or omit them altogether.

  B: When preparing food for a gluten-free individual, it’s important to read labels and avoid gluten. Some foods might have gluten in unexpected places, like soy sauce.

  C: Be sure to prepare a gluten-free work surface and use gluten-free cooking tools. Otherwise, gluten could contaminate the food.

  D: Use certified gluten-free pasta in the casserole.

• Q: Can I prepare the biftekia in advance?A: Yes, the patties may be formed and stored in the refrigerator for up to a day before grilling.
• Q: How should I store leftover salsa verde?A: Keep it in a sealed container in the fridge for no longer than three days.
• Q: What should I serve with biftekia?Biftekia goes well with pita bread, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables.
• Q: Can I cook biftekia in the oven instead of grilling?Yes, they can be baked at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 20-25 minutes or until they are cooked all the way through.

Substitutions and Variations

Lean ground turkey can be substituted for ground beef for a leaner option.
Instead of a red onion, use a shallot for a more delicate flavor.
Panko breadcrumbs can take the place of standard breadcrumbs for a crispy texture.
Instead of fresh parsley, you can use fresh coriander (cilantro) to impart a different flavor altogether.
Use lime juice instead of lemon juice in the salsa verde for a zesty taste.

Pro Tips

1. Mix Meat Gently When combining the ingredients for the biftekia, mix them gently to avoid making the patties tough. Overmixing can develop the proteins too much, resulting in a denser texture.

2. Chill Before Grilling After forming the biftekia, chill them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps them hold their shape better on the grill and intensifies the flavors.

3. Control Cooking Temperature Ensure your grill or grill pan is adequately preheated to medium-high before cooking the biftekia. This will help form a nice crust and ensure even cooking.

4. Grill Lid Trick If using an outdoor grill, closing the lid while cooking the biftekia can help them cook more evenly and infuse a slight smoky flavor.

5. Balancing the Salsa Verde Taste the salsa verde before serving and adjust the seasoning or acidity by adding more lemon juice, salt, or olive oil to perfectly complement the biftekia. The salsa should have a balanced, vibrant flavor that enhances the dish.