Entree: Greece – Athens & Attica – Μπιφτέκι ➤ Biftéki (Greek seasoned grilled meat patties often stuffed with cheese and served with lemon and herbs)

Serving Size: 4

Approximate Time

Prep 20 min

Cook 10 min

Additional 4 min

Total 30 min

Ingredients

- 1 lb (454 g) ground beef or a mix of ground beef and lamb
- 1 small onion, finely grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup (50 g) fresh breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp (1 g) dried oregano, plus extra for garnish
- 1 tsp (5 g) salt
- 1/2 tsp (1 g) ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil, plus extra for brushing
- 4 small cubes feta cheese, approx. 0.5 oz (15 g) each, for stuffing
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges, for serving
- Optional: 1/4 tsp (1 g) ground allspice or a pinch of cinnamon for traditional aroma

Instructions

1. In a large bowl combine the ground meat, grated onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and optional allspice; mix gently until just combined to avoid compacting the mixture. Cover and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to firm up.
2. Divide the mixture into four equal portions (about 6 oz / 170 g each). Flatten each portion into a patty, place a cube of feta in the center, and fold the meat around the cheese, sealing edges to form an oval patty about 1 in (2.5 cm) thick. Repeat for remaining portions.
3. Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Brush patties lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking. Cook the bifteki 4–5 minutes per side on the grill or skillet, pressing gently to maintain shape, until well browned outside and cooked through (internal temperature 160°F / 71°C). If the cheese begins to leak, reduce heat to medium and cook a bit longer to finish cooking evenly.
4. Remove from heat and let rest for 3–4 minutes. Serve warm with lemon wedges, a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of dried oregano, and accompaniments such as roasted potatoes, pita, or a simple Greek salad.