Kotleti Recipe – Russian Special

Kotleti are classic Eastern European meat patties, popular across Russia, Ukraine, and neighboring countries. Crispy on the outside and soft, juicy on the inside, these pan-fried cutlets are a comforting home-style dish often served with mashed potatoes, rice, or fresh salad.
Simple ingredients, gentle seasoning, and the perfect golden crust make Kotleti a timeless comfort food loved by all ages.
- Prep Time20 min
- Cook Time20 min
- Total Time40 min
- Course
- Cuisine
Kotleti Ingredients:
- 500 g ground meat (beef, chicken, pork, or mix)
- 1 small onion, finely grated
- 1 slice white bread, soaked in milk and squeezed
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
- 2–3 tbsp breadcrumbs (for coating)
- 2–3 tbsp oil for frying
Kotleti Instructions:
In a bowl, combine ground meat, grated onion, soaked bread, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika.
Mix gently until just combined—do not overmix.
Shape the mixture into oval or round patties.
Lightly coat each patty in breadcrumbs.
Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
Fry kotleti until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 3–4 minutes per side.
Remove and rest for a minute before serving.
Recipe Notes :
Grated onion adds moisture—do not chop it
Do not overmix or patties may turn dense
Medium heat works best for even cooking
Chicken kotleti cook faster, adjust time accordingly
