Bulgaria - Kufteta (Traditional Bulgarian Meatballs)

We skipped the country of Brunei... it was difficult finding a recipe that I was satisfied with! So, we may come back to that one, next week or in a few years! So... on to Bulgaria. These meatballs reminded me of little cheeseburger patties. They were super flavorful and easy to make. Not going to lie, the frying had me a smidge frazzled, but I made it through and survived. And I was so ready to eat that I forgot to take a picture of the finished product *face palm*. So I borrowed a picture from Mr. Google.

Interesting facts about Bulgaria:

• Bulgaria is the only European country that hasn't changed its name since it was first established.
• Bulgaria produces 85% of the world's rose oil.
• Bulgarians nod their head for "no" and shake their head for "yes".

I listened to some traditional Bulgarian music while I cooked.

 

Kufteta

1 lb. ground pork (I actually used ground pork and ground turkey, no chicken. You can use whatever meat combo you want!)

1 lb. ground chicken

1 small onion finely chopped

1 egg

1 cup of shredded cheese

2 teaspoons Savory spice (optional) (I didn't use any)

1 tsp cumin (optional) (I did add cumin)

1 tsp black pepper

3-4 teaspoons salt (I added 3.5 tsp and I think that was a little much. I actually think I probably gotten away with 0-1 tsps)

1 tablespoon parsley fresh or dried (I used dried)

1/3 cup milk (I used almondmilk)

2 teaspoons of soy sauce (optional) (I used coco aminos)

1. Preheat over to 350 F degrees.

2. Finely chop the onion and set aside.

3. Heat oil in a large pan or skillet.

4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground mean, onion, egg, cheese, milk, and spices. Mix well with your hands until well combined.

5. Wet your hands and form the meatballs as big or small as you like. Start by forming them into a round shape but gently flatten them before placing them in the skillet.

6. Fry them on both sides until browned.

7. Line a baking sheet with foil and place the meatballs in one layer on the baking sheet. Once all the meatballs are fried, transfer them to the baking sheet and bake them for about 10 minutes to ensure the inside is cooked through.

8. Serve with your favorite fresh or cooked vegetables, fries, rice, or salad.

In Bulgarian, the official language of Bulgaria.... Заслужих си значката! - I earned my badge!