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Eastern European Kotlety: Juicy Meat Patties

75 min 6 servings Medium
Kotlety, a staple in Eastern European cuisine, are deliciously seasoned meat patties typically made with a blend of pork and beef. These patties are cherished for their juicy, tender texture and rich flavour. This version of kotlety incorporates traditional spices and ingredients, providing an authentic taste of Eastern Europe. Whether you're familiar with these delightful patties or discovering them for the first time, this recipe will guide you in creating an unforgettable meal. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, kotlety are enjoyed by all ages. Serve them with mashed potatoes or a simple salad for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Instructions

1

Soak the Bread

In a small bowl, soak the bread in milk until soft, about 5 minutes. Squeeze out excess milk and crumble the bread.

2

Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, ground beef, crumbled bread, onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, paprika, and marjoram. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Pro tip: Mix with your hands to ensure everything is well combined.

3

Chill the Mixture

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavours to meld and the mixture to firm up.

4

Shape the Patties

Divide the meat mixture into 12 equal portions and shape each into a patty about 1.5 cm (0.6 inches) thick.

Pro tip: Keep your hands slightly wet to prevent sticking.

5

Preheat the Pan

Heat the vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat until shimmering.

6

Fry the Kotlety

Carefully place the patties in the pan, leaving space between each. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 70°C (160°F).

Pro tip: Avoid pressing down on the patties to keep them juicy.

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Tips & Tricks

  • Use day-old bread for the best texture in your kotlety.
  • Chilling the mixture helps the patties hold their shape during frying.
  • Don't overcrowd the pan; fry in batches for even cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Eastern European kotlety?

Eastern European kotlety are traditional meat patties made from a mixture of ground pork and beef, seasoned with spices and often served with sides like potatoes or salad.

How long does it take to cook kotlety?

It takes about 25 minutes to cook kotlety, with an additional 30 minutes for the mixture to rest and meld flavours.

Can kotlety be made ahead?

Yes, you can make kotlety ahead. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

What should I serve with kotlety?

Kotlety are traditionally served with mashed potatoes, pickled vegetables, or a fresh salad. A dollop of sour cream or lemon adds extra flavour.

How many calories are in a serving of kotlety?

A serving of kotlety contains approximately 320 calories.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your kotlety hot with a side of mashed potatoes, pickled vegetables, or a fresh cucumber salad for a complete meal. These patties pair wonderfully with a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lemon for extra zest. Kotlety can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in a pan or oven to maintain their juicy texture. They also freeze well, making them a convenient option for meal prep.

Nutrition per serving

320

Calories

20g

Protein

22g

Fat

12g

Carbs