🇬🇷 Greece · Food
Mpiftekia: Hearty Greek Beef Patties
By eatmundo · July 7, 2026
🇬🇷 GRDelicious and juicy Greek beef patties, often seasoned with fresh herbs like parsley and mint, and a hint of red wine vinegar. They are typically grilled or baked until golden brown, offering a satisfying and flavorful main course.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
In a large mixing bowl, combine 700g ground beef, 1 finely grated small onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, and 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint. Ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed before adding the binders.
- 2
Add 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1 large egg, 15ml red wine vinegar, 30ml olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon dried oregano to the beef mixture. For optimal flavor and texture, use your hands to gently mix everything until just combined, being careful not to overmix, as this can make the patties tough.
- 3
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the mixture to firm up, making the patties easier to form and preventing them from falling apart during cooking.
- 4
Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions. Take each portion and shape it into an oval or round patty, about 1.5 cm thick. If you wish to stuff them, flatten half of a portion, place about 15g of crumbled feta cheese in the center, and then cover with the other half, sealing the edges well.
- 5
Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat (about 200°C / 400°F). Lightly brush the grill grates or the pan with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the patties on the hot grill.
- 6
Grill the mpiftekia for 4-6 minutes per side, depending on your desired level of doneness. They should develop beautiful char marks and be cooked through, with an internal temperature of 70°C (160°F) for medium-well.
- 7
Alternatively, you can bake them: Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- 8
Once cooked, remove the mpiftekia from the heat and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a more tender and flavorful patty. Serve hot with roasted potatoes, rice, or a fresh Greek salad.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of ground meat is best for Mpiftekia?+
For the most flavorful and juicy Mpiftekia, use a blend of ground beef with about 20% fat. This ratio ensures the patties remain moist and tender during cooking.
Can I prepare Mpiftekia ahead of time?+
Yes, you can prepare the patty mixture and form the Mpiftekia up to 24 hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator until ready to cook. They can also be frozen raw for up to 3 months.
What are common ways to serve Mpiftekia?+
Mpiftekia are versatile! They're traditionally served with roasted potatoes, rice, tzatziki, or a fresh horiatiki salad. For a quick meal, they can also be tucked into pita bread with toppings.
How can I prevent the Mpiftekia from drying out?+
Don't overmix the meat, as this develops gluten and can make them tough. Also, ensure you don't overcook them; cook until just done. A little fat in the meat and a rest after cooking helps retain moisture.
🇬🇷 GRMundo Match
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