Soutzoukakia Smyrneika Recipe – Greek Special
Soutzoukakia Smyrneika are a beloved Greek dish inspired by Smyrna (modern-day İzmir). These oblong meatballs are seasoned with garlic, cumin, and oregano, then gently simmered in a fragrant tomato sauce enriched with tomato paste, cinnamon, and optional red wine. Perfectly tender and aromatic, they pair beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread. This classic Greek recipe balances savory meat with a spiced, rich tomato sauce, making it a comforting main course ideal for family dinners or special occasions.
- Prep Time20 min
- Cook Time45 min
- Total Time1 hr 5 min
For the Meatballs:
- 500g (1 lb) ground beef or lamb (or mix)
- 1 small onion, grated
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for browning)
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 400g (14 oz) canned tomatoes, crushed
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Soutzoukakia Smyrneika Instructions:
Mix ground meat, grated onion, garlic, cumin, oregano, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper to form a smooth mixture.
Shape mixture into small oblong meatballs (about 2–3 inches long).
Heat olive oil in a pan and lightly brown meatballs on all sides; remove and set aside.
In the same pan, sauté garlic in olive oil until fragrant.
Add tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, cumin, cinnamon, red wine, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
Simmer sauce for 10–15 minutes to develop flavors.
Add browned meatballs to the sauce; cover and simmer gently for 20–25 minutes until meatballs are cooked through.
Serve hot over rice, mashed potatoes, or with crusty bread.
Recipe Notes :
Meat Options: Mix ground beef and lamb for richer flavor and juiciness.
Spice Adjustments: Increase cumin or cinnamon for a more aromatic and warming flavor.
Sauce Thickness: Simmer longer to achieve a thicker, more concentrated tomato sauce.
Make Ahead Tip: Meatballs and sauce can be prepared in advance and reheated gently.
Serving Suggestion: Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
