Yuvarlakia

Yuvarlakia

Yuvarlakia served in a bowl

Yuvarlakia is a traditional dish in Greek cuisine consisting of meatballs made from a mixture of ground meat, typically beef or lamb, combined with rice and various seasonings. These meatballs are cooked in a broth and often served with an avgolemono sauce, which is a creamy mixture of egg and lemon juice.

Preparation

The preparation of yuvarlakia begins with the creation of the meatball mixture. Ground meat is combined with uncooked rice, finely chopped onion, parsley, and dill. Seasonings such as salt, pepper, and sometimes cumin or cinnamon are added to enhance the flavor. The mixture is then shaped into small, round balls.

Once the meatballs are formed, they are gently placed into a pot of simmering broth. The broth is typically made from chicken stock or beef stock, and it is important to maintain a gentle simmer to ensure the meatballs cook evenly without falling apart.

Avgolemono Sauce

A distinctive feature of yuvarlakia is the avgolemono sauce, which is added towards the end of the cooking process. To make the sauce, eggs are beaten until frothy, and fresh lemon juice is gradually incorporated. A small amount of the hot broth is slowly whisked into the egg and lemon mixture to temper the eggs and prevent curdling. This mixture is then added back into the pot with the meatballs, creating a creamy and tangy sauce that thickens the broth.

Variations

While the classic version of yuvarlakia uses beef or lamb, variations exist that incorporate other types of meat such as pork or chicken. Some recipes may include additional herbs like mint or oregano for a different flavor profile. In some regions, the dish is prepared without the avgolemono sauce, allowing the natural flavors of the meat and broth to stand out.

Serving

Yuvarlakia is typically served hot as a main course. It is often accompanied by crusty bread or a simple green salad. The dish is popular in Greek households, especially during the colder months, as it provides a hearty and comforting meal.

Related pages

• Greek cuisine
• Avgolemono
• Meatball
• Soup