KEFTEDES Meaning and
Definition
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Keftedes is a noun that refers to a type of traditional Greek dish consisting of small meatballs or patties, typically made from ground meat such as beef, pork, lamb, or a combination of these. This term derives from the Greek word "keftes," which means "meatballs" or "rissoles."
To prepare keftedes, the ground meat is mixed with various ingredients to enhance the flavor and texture, including breadcrumbs or soaked stale bread, grated onions, minced garlic, herbs such as parsley and mint, and spices such as dried oregano. The mixture is often bound together by adding beaten eggs, which help to hold the meatballs together during cooking. Once the ingredients are thoroughly combined, the mixture is formed into small, bite-sized balls or flattened patties.
Keftedes are usually deep-fried or pan-fried until golden brown and crispy on the outside, while remaining juicy and tender on the inside. They are commonly served as an appetizer, accompanied by tzatziki sauce, a refreshing yogurt-based dip flavored with garlic, cucumber, lemon juice, and herbs. Keftedes can also be served as a main course, often accompanied by a salad, roasted potatoes, or rice.
This versatile and flavorful dish holds cultural significance in Greek cuisine, demonstrating the skill and creativity of Greek cooks and the importance of social gatherings and communal meals in Greek culture. Keftedes are cherished for their rich and savory taste, making them a beloved and popular choice among locals and tourists alike.
Common Misspellings for KEFTEDES
- jeftedes
- meftedes
- leftedes
- oeftedes
- ieftedes
- kwftedes
- ksftedes
- kdftedes
- krftedes
- k4ftedes
- k3ftedes
- kedtedes
- kectedes
- kevtedes
- kegtedes
- kettedes
- kertedes
- kefredes
- keffedes
- kefgedes
Etymology of KEFTEDES
The word "keftedes" (κεφτέδες) has its etymology in Greek cuisine. It is a Greek dish consisting of meatballs typically made from ground meat, breadcrumbs, herbs, and various seasonings.
The term "keftedes" is derived from the Greek word "keftis" (κεφτής), which means "meatball" or "patty". The root of "keftis" can be traced back to the Arabic word "kafta" (كفتة), meaning "small balls" or "minced meat".
It is believed that these culinary terms were adopted by Greeks during the Ottoman period when the Ottoman Empire ruled over various parts of Greece. The influence of Ottoman, Arab, and Middle Eastern cuisines brought the method of preparing minced meat dishes, resulting in the creation of "keftedes" in Greek cuisine.
