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Greek Soutzoukakia (Greek Meatballs in Tomato Sauce)
5 from 10 votes

Greek Soutzoukakia (Greek Meatballs in Tomato Sauce)

Greek Soutzoukakia are oval-shaped meatballs made from lean ground beef mixed with soaked bread, garlic, and spices like cumin. They are browned in olive oil before simmering in a tomato sauce enriched with white wine and a touch of sugar. This preparation yields meatballs tenderized by the bread and flavored by the tomato sauce, ideal served with rice, mashed potatoes, or salads.

Prep Time
20 mins
Cook Time
30 mins
Total Time
50 mins
Servings: 10 -12
Calories: 117 kcal
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Greek

Ingredients

For the meatballs
  • 1 lb ground beef lean
  • 3 bread thick slices; crust removed
  • 3 garlic cloves, pressed
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
For the tomato sauce
  • 400 ml chopped tomatoes canned; finely chopped; polpa
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 cup white wine
  • 1/2 cup water

Instructions

Make the meatballs
    Cup of Yum
  1. Soak the bread slices, crust removed, for 5 minutes.
  2. Once the bread is soaked, mix with the ground beef, pressed garlic, salt, cumin, pepper and egg. Knead well to combine the mixture. Let sit for 10 minutes.
  3. After 10 minutes, scoop 2 tablespoons at a time and form into ovals / logs, about 2-3 inches in length.
  4. Once all meatballs are made, heat 1 tbsp oil in a medium-large skillet over medium heat. When the pan is hot, sear 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove all the meatballs to a paper towel lined plate.
Make the tomato sauce
  1. Once the meatballs are removed, add tomatoes, sugar, salt and water - cook for 10 minutes on medium-low, keeping at a low simmer.
  2. Add the wine and let it cook for 2-3 minutes.
  3. Put the meatballs back in the pan and simmer with the sauce for 10 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through.
  4. Serve with rice, mashed potatoes or one of our delicious Greek salads (see below for serving ideas).

Notes

  • Serve Soutzoukakia with rice or classic mashed potatoes to soak up the tomato sauce.
  • Complement the dish with traditional Greek salads such as Maroulosalata or Greek Cabbage Salad for freshness.
  • Fluffy Greek pita bread is also suitable to accompany this meal, providing a soft texture contrast.

Nutrition Information

Calories 117kcal (6%) Carbohydrates 6.1g (2%) Protein 10.8g (22%) Fat 4.5g (7%) Saturated Fat 1.2g (6%) Polyunsaturated Fat 0.5g (3%) Monounsaturated Fat 2.5g (13%) Cholesterol 41.6mg (14%) Sodium 744.3mg (31%) Fiber 0.6g (2%) Sugar 0.8g (2%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 10 -12

Amount Per Serving

Calories 117

% Daily Value*

Calories 117kcal 6%
Carbohydrates 6.1g 2%
Protein 10.8g 22%
Fat 4.5g 7%
Saturated Fat 1.2g 6%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.5g 3%
Monounsaturated Fat 2.5g 13%
Cholesterol 41.6mg 14%
Sodium 744.3mg 31%
Fiber 0.6g 2%
Sugar 0.8g 2%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.